We are committed to providing exceptional dental care to our local patients at Purley Dental Care. Our experienced dentists use the latest materials, and trained expertise to deliver high-quality dental fillings. We understand the importance of patient comfort and strive to create a relaxed atmosphere during your visit.
We offer a range of treatment options to suit your individual needs and preferences, so contact us today to book your appointment. Our friendly team is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
There are two main types of dental fillings available, each with its advantages. We primarily use composite fillings due to their excellent aesthetic and functional properties.
Made from resin material, these are colour-matched to your teeth. They are the most popular choice as they blend seamlessly, providing a natural-looking restoration. Composite fillings are more functional due to their ability to fit smaller shaped cavities in the mouth and give added strength as they bond with teeth.
Amalgam fillings are made of a combination of metals, including silver, mercury, and tin, which give them their silver colour. They are durable but less natural looking in the mouth, so may be suitable for back teeth fillings.
There are several signs that you may need a dental filling. Common symptoms include tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, and visible holes or cavities. You may also notice food getting stuck in your teeth, or you might see dark spots or damage on your tooth's surface. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see one of our dentists promptly for an evaluation, as untreated cavities can lead to more severe dental issues.
Tooth decay is a common reason why fillings are needed. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and starches left on the teeth, forming plaque. This sticky, acidic plaque gradually softens and erodes the enamel, which is the protective outer layer of the teeth. Initially, the damage may start as a small hole or cavity, but if left untreated, it can continue to grow and affect deeper layers of the tooth, leading to pain, infection, and the need for more extensive dental treatments like fillings or root canals.
Dental fillings are a day-to-day procedure at Purley Dental Care, so your experience will be straightforward and comfortable. Whether you choose a composite filling or the most common, amalgam fillings, our experienced dentists will numb the area with local anaesthetic injection, to ensure you are pain-free and relaxed throughout the treatment. The decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the cavity is cleaned before the filling material is applied and shaped to match the natural mould of your tooth. You may be advised to avoid hot or cold drinks as the tooth will be slightly sensitive for a day or two.
A temporary filling is a short-term solution used by dentists to protect a tooth until a more permanent treatment can be applied. A temporary filling is not intended to last for a long time. It serves as a protective barrier, covering a cavity or damaged tooth, often used in emergencies such as a broken tooth or severe tooth pain. Temporary fillings are lightweight and easy to wear but should be replaced by a permanent filling or other dental work as soon as possible. If the damage to the tooth is extensive, such as deep cavities or damage to the tooth's nerve centre, a more involved procedure like a root canal may be necessary.
Fillings protect the tooth from further decay by sealing the cavity and will restore tooth function, and your ability to chew and bite comfortably.
Patient care and comfort are our priority, so our team will support you with your needs and deliver high-quality service.
Improving oral health and enhancing appearance. By preventing decay, fillings contribute to overall oral health.
Affordable Finance available for a selected range of treatments. See our Finance Page for more details. T&Cs apply.
Dental fillings are materials used to repair cavities. They restore the tooth's shape, function, and appearance.
The lifespan of a filling depends on several factors and your home care. It depends on the type of filling, the size of the cavity, and your oral hygiene habits. With proper oral care, fillings can last for many years.
Modern dentistry uses local anaesthesia to numb the area, so you shouldn't feel any pain during the procedure. You might experience some sensitivity after the filling is placed, but this usually subsides quickly.
No, getting a filling isn't painful. Our dentists use local anaesthesia to numb the area, so you'll only feel mild pressure during the procedure. Any discomfort afterwards is usually brief and manageable.
Fillings can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, depending on the material used and how well you care for your teeth. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can help extend their lifespan.
Composite fillings typically last between 5 to 10 years. Their lifespan depends on factors like the location of the filling, your eating habits, and how well you maintain your oral hygiene.
It should be avoided immediately after eating warm food. Our dentists advise patients with tooth-filled filling to take an hour to recover from the procedure. However, eat very soft and moist foods.
The number of times a tooth can be filled depends on the extent of decay or damage and the remaining healthy tooth structure. Over time, if a tooth becomes too weakened, alternative treatments like crowns or root canals may be necessary. Regular dental check-ups help determine the best course of action.
To prolong the life of your fillings, practise good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Regular dental checkups are also essential.
Signs of a filling that needs to be replaced include pain, sensitivity, discolouration, or a visible crack in the filling.
