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E: Are you experiencing tooth sensitivity? Do you need a filling but want a natural and virtually unnoticeable solution? If so, Southfield Dental offers a range of filling options, such as white fillings and if necessary amalgam.
Treatment Preparation
If your tooth is damaged by decay, a filling can restore it back to its original state and prevent future damage. The decay can sometimes be seen clinically, but often found on x-ray as they are not always causing any symptoms. We begin by determining the most suitable type of filling for your tooth.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings are a safe and cost-effective option that can restore a tooth’s shape and functionality. Used for over 150 years and comprised of metals such as silver, tin, copper and mercury, amalgam fillings are durable strong. With proper maintenance and good oral hygiene habits, amalgam fillings can last many years.
Though due to changes from General Dental Council amalgam fillings are no longer used in children under 16 years of age or pregnant women unless deemed strictly necessary.
To book an appointment, please don’t hesitate to get in touch
Composite (White) Fillings
Should you have an allergy to metal, are pregnant, under the age of 16, or wish to achieve a more natural looking appearance, our composite white fillings are ideal. Comprised of a mixture of plastic and sometimes fine glass particles, this option is typically used for both small and large fillings, and teeth that are more visible.
We can choose from either direct or indirect composite white fillings. Direct fillings are placed using a bright blue light, which hardens the material. An indirect filling is achieved by taking an impression of your teeth, which is sent to a lab where a filling is created. On your second visit, this filling is then applied to your tooth using cement.
The Treatment Process
To ensure the utmost comfort for all of our patients, we’ll administer a local anaesthetic to numb the area before any work takes place. We’ll then remove all of the decay using a specialist dental drill.
Following the removal of decay, we will then shape the space of your tooth to prepare it for the filling and insert a liner inside the tooth to protect the pulp. Following the placement of the filling, we will then use burs to both finish and polish the surface.
Benefits
In addition to getting rid of any pain you may be experiencing, a filling can help to prevent any future damage to your tooth which can be caused by bacteria entering the cavity. It can also restore your tooth’s shape and functionality, therefore making it easier to chew particular foods.
Chris’ Expert Opinion
Amalgam fillings are used less than in previous years. Recent legislation (2018) has directed dentists to use alternatives to amalgam in all children under the age of 16, and pregnant women. Some countries have banned the use of amalgam, and this will probably be the same for the UK in the coming years. We will still use amalgam in situations where patients have adverse reactions to other fillings or for certain clinical situations. The material is no cheaper to buy, and they take no less time to place, and hence there is no cost difference between amalgam and white fillings.
White fillings account for over 95% of fillings placed here at our practice. There is a huge variety in types and shapes of white filling depending on where it is placed, and why. This is why fillings can vary so much in cost. Sometimes just a small repair, and others are used to completely rebuild the tooth and overlay the top for extra strength. It is really important to get the correct conditions when placing white resin fillings to ensure a good seal as they are adhesive (sticky) fillings and rely on a good bond.
Whist fillings are a popular, simple and cost-effective way of treating damaged and decayed teeth, there are other options for teeth that are becoming weak. The dentist will always give you the options if there are stronger and longer lasting methods of treatment.