If you have a hole in your tooth caused by Tooth decay or if the tooth is cracked or damaged, then you may need a Tooth Filling or Restoration. The procedure of having a filling is usually carried out whilst you are awake with a local anaesthetic used to make sure you cannot feel the areas being worked on.
How Are Tooth Fillings Completed?
- Any decay is removed and the cavity shaped to support the filling.
- The cavity is then filled with your desired filling type.
- The material used to fill the tooth on which tooth in the mouth needs treating as well as other factors such as the strength of your bite.
- Please make sure to let your dentist know if you would like a specific filling such as a white tooth coloured filling.
If you have the tooth filled and treated as soon as possible after you notice decay or a crack this will prevent the tooth from deteriorating further and will also avoid the need for more extensive dental treatment.
Types Of Tooth Filling
Amalgam Tooth Fillings
Amalgam fillings are made of a mix of copper, tin and mercury (which is safe for most adults and children over six years old). These are extremely hard wearing fillings which can last for a couple of decades, if not more, with the right care. The mercury used within a dental amalgam filling is not harmful once it is combined with the other materials within the filling. So far no reputable study has found any connection between the fillings and medical problems.
Composite Tooth Fillings
Composite filings are tooth coloured and are usually used for more visible, conspicuous teeth due to their more natural appearance. Modern improvements also mean that composite fillings can last as long as amalgam fillings but your dentist will talk through the options with you.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are tooth coloured and held in place by forming a chemical link to the tooth. This type of filling is fairly weak so is normally only used on baby teeth or where the filling will not be in contact with the biting surface.
Replacing An Old Tooth Filling
We normally advise changing fillings when your dentist advises. This makes sure the structure of your teeth is preserved instead of causing damage when removing the old filling.
If you do want to replace an old unsightly filling or have been advised to do so by your dentist because of decay or other damage then we can provide you with mercury-free tooth-coloured fillings which are composed of synthetic resins, glass particulates and a setting ingredient.
Please contact your dentist in Billericay if you have any worries or concerns about your fillings or are simply interested in replacing old fillings with more cosmetic ones