Restorative
Fillings
Tooth coloured composite fillings restore a tooth conservatively and blend with the enamel around them. Most single fillings are completed in one visit.
What it is
A filling repairs a tooth where decay has broken through the surface. Only the compromised structure is removed, and composite is bonded in to rebuild the shape.
Composite is shaded to match the tooth, so a repaired tooth does not announce itself. It also bonds to the tooth, which allows a more conservative preparation than older materials required.
If decay has gone further than a filling can handle, we will say so and talk about a crown or other options instead of placing something that will not hold.
Who it is for
- A check up has found early decay.
- A tooth is sensitive to sweet or cold.
- You can feel a rough edge or a small hole.
- An old silver filling is failing or leaking.
- You want a repair that matches your enamel.
What to expect
Numbing
Local anaesthetic is given and we wait until you are properly numb before starting.
Cleaning the tooth
Decay is removed conservatively. Healthy structure is kept wherever it can be.
Placing the composite
The material is bonded in layers, shaped to the tooth, and hardened with a light.
Bite check and polish
We check how the tooth meets its opposite number and polish the surface before you leave.
Questions we hear most
They can, and we will tell you honestly whether yours needs replacing or is fine to leave alone.
Some sensitivity after a filling is common and usually settles. If it lingers or worsens, call us and we will check it.
For a very small repair sometimes not. We will discuss it, and being numb is always an option if you prefer.
Composite sets straight away, so the main thing to wait for is the numbness wearing off.
Talk it through with a dentist before you commit to anything.
Bring your questions to a consultation. We will explain what we see and what the options are, and nothing gets booked until you decide it should.