Dental Fillings

A properly placed filling should not fall out easily. However, fillings can become dislodged due to new decay forming underneath them, biting on something very hard, trauma, or the natural wear and tear over many years. If a filling falls out, contact your dentist promptly to have it replaced.

No, you should not feel pain during the procedure. The dentist will first use a local anaesthetic to completely numb the tooth and surrounding area. You will likely feel pressure and vibration, but no sharp pain. Some sensitivity after the anaesthetic wears off is normal and temporary.

With good oral care, a modern composite filling can last 5 to 10 years or more. Longevity depends on the material used, the size and location of the filling, your oral hygiene habits, and your diet (e.g., avoiding excessive sugary foods and hard, sticky sweets).

Out-of-hours private dental treatment incurs a significant premium. A filling performed during an emergency evening, weekend, or Bank Holiday appointment will be more expensive than a scheduled daytime visit. You can expect a starting cost from approximately £350 for the appointment and treatment

Having many fillings is not inherently bad, but it is an indicator of a history of dental decay. It’s important to understand the cause (e.g., diet, oral hygiene, genetics) to prevent future issues. Well-maintained fillings can last for many years, keeping your teeth functional and healthy.

For very small early decay, your dentist might recommend fluoride treatments to help remineralise the enamel and halt progression. However, once a cavity has formed, a filling is the standard treatment. For larger areas of damage, alternatives like an inlay, onlay, or dental crown may be necessary.

If left untreated, the decay in your tooth will continue to spread. This will lead to a larger cavity, deeper infection, and ultimately more severe pain. It can progress to require a more complex and costly treatment, such as a root canal treatment or even a tooth extraction.

Modern fillings are typically made from a durable, tooth-coloured composite resin. This material is bonded directly to the tooth for a strong, natural-looking restoration. In specific cases, other materials like amalgam (silver), glass ionomer, or gold may be recommended.

A temporary filling is a short-term restoration used in specific situations. It may be placed to protect a tooth between appointments (e.g., during a multi-visit root canal), to allow an infection to clear before a permanent filling, or as an emergency measure in an out-of-hours clinic to relieve pain until you can see your regular dentist.