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Restorations (Fillings)

Why Do I Need a Filling?

A filling may be required for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common include:

  1. Tooth Decay
    The most common reason for needing a filling is tooth decay. When bacteria in your mouth break down the enamel, it forms cavities that need to be filled to restore the tooth’s function.

  2. Cracked or Broken Teeth
    Teeth can crack or break due to normal wear and tear, trauma, or even unusual uses, such as opening bottle tops. Fillings help restore the tooth's shape and functionality.

  3. Teeth Worn from Grinding (Bruxism)
    Habitual tooth grinding can cause your teeth to wear down, necessitating fillings to repair the damage and protect your teeth from further wear.

  4. Replacement of Old Fillings
    Fillings may need to be replaced due to age, wear, or for cosmetic reasons. If your old fillings no longer provide the necessary protection, your dentist will recommend replacing them.

What Happens When I Have a Filling?

  1. Local Anaesthetic
    To begin, the dentist will apply a local anaesthetic to numb the area and ensure you are comfortable during the procedure.

  2. Decay Removal
    The decayed part of the tooth is carefully removed, and the cavity is shaped to properly support the restoration material.

  3. Protecting the Nerve
    In cases of deep decay, a protective lining may be placed at the base of the cavity to shield the nerve of the tooth.

  4. Filling Material

- Amalgam Fillings: The amalgam is packed into the cavity and allowed to set over time.

- Composite Fillings: These are placed in increments, and a special blue light is used to set the material.


Although silver amalgam fillings still have their place in dentistry, white composite fillings are the preferred choice at our clinic due to their aesthetic appeal. Your dentist will discuss the best material for your needs before proceeding with the filling.

What Should I Expect After My Filling?

After your filling, the area should feel normal once the anaesthetic wears off. However, some people experience sensitivity, particularly if the filling is deep. Here’s what you should expect:

  1. Sensitivity
    If you experience extreme sensitivity that does not subside after two weeks, contact your dentist for further evaluation.

  2. Bite Discomfort
    If you feel discomfort when biting down, it may be because the filling is too high. This can usually be fixed by reshaping the filling to ensure a proper bite.

  3. Sharp or Rough Edges
    Occasionally, you may notice sharp or rough edges on the filling. If this happens, contact your dentist to have the edges smoothed to prevent injury to your tongue or mouth.

Fillings are necessary to restore teeth damaged by decay, cracks, or wear. They help restore function and prevent further damage.

We offer both composite (white) and amalgam (silver) fillings, with composite being the most commonly used due to its aesthetic qualities.

The area is numbed with a local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Some post-treatment sensitivity may occur, but it should subside in a few days.

Fillings can last many years, but their longevity depends on factors such as the material used, their location in the mouth, and your oral care habits.

If you experience discomfort, especially when biting down, contact your dentist. The filling may need to be adjusted for comfort.