Dental Fillings

Depending on the material chosen and the function of the tooth, a filling can usually last about 5-7 years.

For a few days following the filling, you may experience a sensation while chewing hot or cold food. Any discomfort can usually be alleviated with an over the counter pain reliever.

It’s normal to experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort after a filling, especially when biting down or consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods.

Most patients find that sensitivity lasts a few days to two weeks.

However:

• If the discomfort worsens instead of improving.
• If pain occurs when biting (possible high bite).
• If sensitivity lasts longer than two weeks.

…you should contact us so that your dentist can check the filling and make any needed adjustments.

Severe or prolonged pain is not typical and may indicate that the tooth requires further attention.

A dental filling blends seamlessly with your natural tooth, especially when using white composite material.

• White (composite) fillings appear tooth-coloured and are shaped to match the natural contours of your tooth. They are virtually invisible when you smile.
• Amalgam fillings (which we do not use at The Cosmetic Dental Gallery) are metallic and appear silver or grey.

Composite fillings are bonded to the tooth and provide support and strength. Amalgam fillings are not glued to the tooth so involve more cutting of healthy tooth to provide retentive features so they don’t fall out.

We as a practice have made the decision to only use white composite fillings, we do not have or use metal amalgam fillings on any of our patients. Besides a white composite filling is environmentally friendly and more aesthetically pleasing!

You can get dental fillings at The Cosmetic Dental Gallery in Greenwich and Battersea. Our dentists use natural-looking fillings to repair tooth decay, restore damaged teeth and help protect your long-term oral health.

The cost of a tooth filling at The Cosmetic Dental Gallery depends on the type and location of the tooth. Our filling fees are:

• Incisor / Canine: from £220
• Premolar: from £250
• Molar: from £275

All filling treatments include a full clinical assessment, local anaesthetic, decay removal, and placement of a high-quality composite restoration that is colour-matched to your tooth.

White fillings preserve more of your natural tooth. White fillings bond directly to the tooth without the need to remove as much of the tooth’s surface.

White fillings are an excellent option for patients who have metal allergies or who may not like the idea of mercury, no matter how minimal the quantity, used as part of the filling material.

People with sensitive teeth find white fillings decrease tooth sensitivity compared to using amalgam because metal reacts to hot and cold by expanding and contracting. The plastic used in white fillings does not react to temperature changes.

You can have your amalgam fillings replaced with white fillings.

If you need to replace a filling, it’s usually because the existing filling has worn down, become damaged, or developed decay around its edges. Over time, fillings can crack, chip, or even fall out, allowing bacteria to get underneath and cause further tooth decay. If this happens, your dentist will carefully remove the old filling, clean the area, and replace it with a new one to restore the tooth’s function and prevent additional damage. The process is similar to getting a new filling, and your dentist will ensure the tooth is properly cleaned and sealed for long-lasting protection.

Yes, fillings can help prevent further tooth decay by sealing off the cavity and restoring the tooth’s natural structure. When a filling is placed, it acts as a protective barrier that keeps bacteria and food particles from entering the damaged part of the tooth. This prevents the decay from spreading and helps protect the tooth from future damage. However, it’s important to continue practicing good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, to maintain the health of the filled tooth and surrounding teeth. Regular dental check-ups are also essential to monitor your fillings and ensure no new decay develops.