Everything You Need to Know About Dental Fillings

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental issues — but thankfully, it’s also one of the easiest to treat. At Spixworth Dental Practice, we offer dental fillings as a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution to restore damaged teeth and prevent further decay.

Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or your dentist has spotted a cavity during a check-up, here’s what you need to know about fillings.

🧠 What Is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is a restorative material used to fill the hole left behind by decay. It seals the cavity and restores the function, shape, and strength of your tooth.

If left untreated, a small cavity can grow into a painful infection or require more complex treatments like root canal therapy. That’s why early intervention is key — and fillings offer a simple, straightforward fix.

🔍 Signs You Might Need a Filling

Not all cavities cause pain at first, which is why regular dental check-ups are essential. However, you might need a filling if you experience:

• Tooth sensitivity (especially to sweets, cold or hot foods)
• A visible hole or dark spot on your tooth
• Sharp pain when biting or chewing
• Food getting stuck in one particular area
• A chipped or cracked tooth

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, book a dental assessment to catch the problem early.

🧰 Types of Fillings We Offer

At Spixworth Dental Practice, we offer a range of filling materials to suit both NHS and private patients.

1. Amalgam Fillings (NHS & Private)

What are they? Traditional silver-coloured fillings made from a mixture of metals including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They have been used safely in dentistry for over 150 years.

Benefits:
– Extremely durable and long-lasting (10–15 years or more)
– Ideal for back teeth where chewing forces are greatest
– Cost-effective and widely available
– Quick to place

Considerations:
– Silver colour makes them visible when you smile or laugh
– Not suitable for patients who prefer a natural-looking result

NHS Availability: Commonly provided on the NHS for back teeth where durability is the priority

2. Composite (White) Fillings (NHS & Private)

What are they? Tooth-coloured fillings made from a blend of resin and fine glass particles. They are carefully shade-matched to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Benefits:
– Virtually invisible — matches your natural tooth colour
– Suitable for both front and back teeth
– Bonds directly to the tooth, helping to support its structure
– Mercury-free

Considerations:
– May not last as long as amalgam on heavily loaded back teeth (5–10 years)
– Slightly more technique-sensitive to place

Ideal for: Patients who want a natural-looking result, and for any visible teeth where aesthetics matter

3. Glass Ionomer Fillings (NHS & Private)

What are they? A tooth-coloured filling material made from acrylic and glass powders. Unique among filling materials because it releases fluoride over time, helping to protect the surrounding tooth.

Benefits:
– Releases fluoride, which helps prevent further decay around the filling
– Bonds chemically to the tooth without additional adhesive
– Good option for children and baby teeth
– Useful for fillings near the gum line

Considerations:
– Less durable than amalgam or composite (typically 3–5 years)
– Not ideal for large cavities or areas under heavy biting pressure
– Sometimes used as a temporary or semi-permanent solution

Ideal for: Children’s teeth, small cavities in non-load-bearing areas, and patients at higher risk of decay who benefit from fluoride release

Your dentist will help you choose the best type based on the location of the cavity, your preferences, and whether you’re being treated under the NHS or privately.

🪥 What Happens During a Filling?

The procedure is quick and typically takes less than 30 minutes per tooth:

1. Numbing: We apply a local anaesthetic to keep you completely comfortable.
2. Decay Removal: The damaged part of the tooth is gently removed.
3. Cleaning: The cavity is cleaned and prepared.
4. Filling: We place and shape the filling material.
5. Polishing: The filling is polished and checked for a perfect bite.

You can eat and drink shortly afterwards (once the numbness wears off), and any sensitivity usually disappears within a few days.

🛡️ How Long Do Fillings Last?

• Amalgam fillings: 10–15 years or more
• Composite fillings: 5–10 years, depending on location and care
• Glass ionomer: 3–5 years (varies)

Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding hard or sticky foods can help extend the life of your fillings.