Fillings

Dental fillings are used to replace part of the tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma.

Restoring the tooth with a filling helps preserve the integrity of the tooth and prevent further damage or tooth loss.

Why do I need a filling?

Dental fillings repair cavities. Your dentist removes the decayed material and repairs the hole with a filling material to stop the decay from progressing further. Fillings also restore strength, shape and functionality to a decayed or damaged tooth.

What are the signs that I need a filling?

• Bad breath
• Sensitivity to temperature
• Toothache
• Black or brown spot on the tooth
• Sharp pain when biting down on the tooth

What is the filling material made from?

We offer silver amalgam and tooth-coloured fillings. Many patients choose amalgam fillings for back teeth because they are not very noticeable when you smile and are the more affordable option. They are made from a blend of metals including silver, tin, zinc, copper, and mercury.

Tooth-coloured fillings which are preferred by most patients, are made of composite resin and closely resemble the colour of your natural teeth.

What happens during the procedure?

The first step is to numb the area with a local anaesthetic. Once the entire area is numb, your dentist cleans out the decay, disinfects the cavity, fills it in with composite resin or amalgam, and gives it a polish to smooth out any rough spots. Your bite will also be checked for comfort.