Tooth Fillings

Tooth fillings are dental restorations that repair teeth damaged by decay, fractures, or wear. They are one of the most common dental procedures and can help save teeth requiring more extensive treatments, such as crowns or root canals.

How Fillings Work:

1. Removal of Decay: The decayed or damaged part of the tooth is usually removed with a dental drill.
2. Cleaning the Area: Once the decay is removed, the area is cleaned to eliminate bacteria and debris.
3. Filling the Cavity: The dentist then fills the cleaned cavity with a filling material, which restores the tooth’s shape and function.
4. Shaping and Polishing: After the filling is placed, the dentist shapes it to match the natural contours of the tooth and polishes it to ensure a smooth surface.

Types of Fillings: Amalgam and White Fillings

What are amalgam fillings?

Many people have amalgam or silver fillings, which are metal-coloured. Amalgam was the traditional material used for fillings for many years.

Why should I consider white fillings?

Most people have fillings of one sort or another in their mouths. Nowadays, fillings are not only functional but can also look natural. Many people do not want silver fillings that show when they laugh or smile because they are more conscious about their appearance.

Can I get them on the NHS?

The National Health Service usually does not allow white fillings on the biting surfaces of back teeth. However, this does not apply to the sides of the back teeth or any front teeth.

Some people may be sensitive to the metals used in silver amalgam fillings. If this sensitivity is proven, replacing the amalgam fillings with another type may be best. (In exceptional cases, these replacements may be available on the NHS if a consultant decides that a patient is extremely sensitive to these materials and asks for them replaced.)

Are they expensive?

Because many white fillings are only available privately, costs vary from dentist to dentist. Costs usually depend on the size and type of white filling used and the time it takes to complete the treatment. Costs may also vary from region to region. As a guide, white fillings start from around £40 each, but your dentist can give you an idea of the cost before you agree to treatment.

Are they as good as silver amalgam fillings?

White fillings have always been considered less long-lasting than silver amalgam fillings. However, new materials are now available with properties comparable to silver amalgam, proving very successful. The life expectancy of a white filling can depend greatly on where it is in your mouth and how heavily your teeth come together when you bite. Your dentist can advise you on the life expectancy of your fillings. However, any fillings provided on the NHS are automatically guaranteed for one year.

Is it worth replacing my amalgam fillings with white ones?

It is usually best to change fillings only when your dentist decides an old one needs replacing. If so, you can ask to replace it with a tooth-coloured material.

Some dentists prefer not to put white fillings in back teeth, as they are not always successful. One way around this would be to use crowns or inlays, but this can mean removing more of the tooth and can be more expensive.

​What are tooth-coloured fillings made of?

These can vary, but they are mainly made of glass particles, synthetic resin, and a setting ingredient. Your dentist should be able to give you more information about their material.

Where can I get them done?

​Most dental practices offer white fillings as a regular part of their treatment. However, they are a ‘cosmetic’ treatment; you can only have them if you pay.

​Are there any alternatives to fillings?

Adhesive dentistry is another form of this treatment. This involves bonding the filling to the tooth. The dentist has to remove less of the tooth, which is better.

As we have already said, there are alternatives, such as crowns and inlays, although they can cost much more. Veneers can be used on front teeth instead of crowns or fillings.