DENTAL FILLINGS BIRMINGHAM

What Are Dental Fillings? 

A filling is a treatment used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay. Fillings are the most common dental procedure. The need for fillings can be avoided by maintaining good oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing, flossing and hygiene appointments with your dental hygienist.

Here at Manor House Dental, our dentists are highly trained and experienced in all aspects of dental fillings. If you think you require a dental filling call us now or fill out a contact form.

Types of Fillings 

There are a range of different materials that can be used for fillings.

• The most popular materials used for fillings is composite resin. This resin mixture will match the colour of your natural teeth making them less noticeable. The resin treatment can be poured directly into the cavity making it a quickly completed treatment.
• Silver can also be used for fillings. The type of silver used is called amalgam. Silver fillings are durable but noticeable due to colour. They are usually placed towards the back of the teeth.
• Gold can also be used for fillings but offer similar results to silver fillings.

If you think you require a filling you should contact your dentist as soon as possible. They can discuss with you the best method and material to use during your appointment.

How Long Does Dental Filling Take? 

A dental filling can usually be completed in one appointment. Your dentist will follow this process.

• Numb the area around the tooth that requires a filling if required. Smaller fillings may not need any anaesthetic.
• Clean the tooth, removing any decay and old filling materials. They will use a high speed drill to do this.
• Any part of the tooth that is weak and may break later will also be removed.
• Your dentist will then blow water and then aire into your mouth to clean and dry the area.
• The surface that is being restored will then be etched with a mild acid. This will help your filling to bond to your natural tooth better.
• The tooth will then be coated in a bonding agent and the filling material will be placed and pushed into the cavity.
• A bright light will then be held in your mouth to set the filling. This is called the curing process.
• The filling will then be trimmed and polished as necessary.

How Long Does A Dental Filling Last?

On average, you can expect your filling to last up to 15 years before needing to be replaced. However, this is dependent on factors such as your oral hygiene practices and whether you grind or clamp your teeth. The location in your mouth and size of your filling can also affect how long your treatment will last.

Which Dental Filling is Best? 

Composite fillings are the most popular option. They are discreet due to the tooth coloured materials available. However, they may not be as durable as other filling materials. The best dental filling for you will be dependent on your individual situation. We recommend booking an appointment with your dentist and they can advise you on the best course of treatment to take.

Are Dental Fillings Painful? 

Tooth fillings should not be painful. If you require anesthesia you may experience some discomfort from the needle but that should be it. Our dentists are highly trained and experienced in all aspects of dental fillings. They are also experts in dealing with nervous patients. If you are worried about experiencing any pain during your dental filling treatment, talk to your dentist and we can help you become more comfortable.

Why Do Dental Fillings Fall Out? 

There are a number of different reasons a filling can fall out. It could be due to eating certain foods, crunching or grinding your teeth or from further decay forming around the filling. If your filling does fall out due to decay, we may need to consider removing the tooth and considering a more permanent restoration such as dental implants.

Dental Fillings Cost 

The cost of your filling will depend on the type of filling you opt for. The price of your treatment will be explained to you during your appointment and you can also find information on this on our fees and offers page.

Dental Fillings Appointment

If you think you need a filling, it is best to book an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Here at Manor House Dental, our team is highly trained and experienced in all aspects of dental fillings. We also offer other restoring treatments such as composite bonding and veneers.

Dental Fillings FAQS 

What Can Tooth Coloured Fillings Be Used For?

They can be used to fill cavities and chips.  They can also be used to protect enamel damage and discoloration.

Will My Teeth Be More Sensitive After Receiving a Filling?

Fillings should not cause any increased sensitivity in your teeth. If you do experience this, you should contact your dentist.

Can I Eat After a Filling? 

Yes,  you can eat and drink immediately after your treatment.

How Many Times Can a Filling be Replaced? 

There is no limit to the amount of times your fillings can be replaced. However, if the hole becomes too large, we may have to consider extracting the tooth.

What Can You Not Do After a Filling? 

You should avoid any hard or sticky foods for two weeks after your treatment.