Decay starts in a tooth due to the erosion of the enamel and dentin layers by acids. These acids are produced by bacteria breaking down the sugars we consume. Many foods contain hidden sugars, and when combined with poor oral hygiene, this can lead to areas that need to be restored or filled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dental fillings are what most people think of when they consider visiting a dentist. Fillings are a simple and effective way to restore a tooth that is diseased or has decay. Decay starts in a tooth due to the erosion of the enamel and dentin layers by acids. These acids are produced by bacteria breaking down the sugars we consume. Many foods contain hidden sugars, and when combined with poor oral hygiene, this can lead to areas that need to be restored or filled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are various types of filling materials available. Many people will remember the black or silver fillings that were commonly used decades ago. However, current European legislation is in place to reduce and prevent the use of amalgam. As a result, the most popular material to use is tooth-coloured composite restorative material.<\/p>\n\n\n
This is a common scenario we encounter as dentists. Many patients come in for check-ups and cleanings, only to be told they need fillings even when they aren\u2019t experiencing pain.<\/p>\n
If you wait until tooth decay causes pain, the decay has likely reached the nerve. At that point, a simple filling may no longer be sufficient, and further treatment such as a root canal or crown could be required.<\/p>\n
Using dental X-rays and clinical experience, we diagnose decay early, remove it, and restore the tooth before more serious problems develop.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
Sometimes decay has progressed significantly, leading to a deep filling, or an old filling needs replacement. Both situations can leave the tooth sensitive.<\/p>\n
Post-operative sensitivity is usually temporary, resolving in days or weeks, though occasionally it can last months. In rare cases a tooth may still need extraction or root-canal therapy despite our best efforts.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
Composite fillings typically last 5 \u2013 10 years. Longevity depends on oral hygiene, regular dental visits, clenching or grinding habits, the size\/location of the filling, and diet (especially sugary or acidic foods\/drinks).<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
Amalgam (silver) fillings contain mercury, have an unaesthetic appearance, and can place stress on tooth structure, leading to cracks. As of 1 January 2025, EU regulations restrict amalgam use to cases where a dentist deems it strictly necessary for medical reasons\u2014mainly to reduce environmental mercury.<\/p>\n
Existing, intact amalgam fillings do not need removal; once set, they release negligible mercury. The greatest vapour release occurs during removal, and mercury-free alternatives are readily available.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
Modern dentistry offers a wide range of tooth-coloured composite resins with excellent aesthetics, strength, and resilience. Thousands of formulations exist for different clinical situations, and material science continues to advance. Laboratory-made porcelain or gold restorations are also available when indicated.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
Composite fillings are light-cured and harden immediately during the procedure. You can use the tooth right away, though it\u2019s sensible to avoid very hard foods for a short time afterwards.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t