Dental Fillings

Overview

Composite is placed in layers, shaped to the anatomy of the tooth and polished. Compared with amalgam it requires less removal of healthy tooth structure, because it is held by adhesion rather than by mechanical undercuts.

Who is it for?

• A cavity found at a check-up or on a bitewing radiograph
• Sensitivity to cold or sweet food in one specific tooth
• A chipped or fractured edge on a front tooth
• Old, stained or leaking fillings that need replacing

How we do it

1. 01

   Diagnosis

   Clinical examination and, where needed, a bitewing radiograph — cavities between teeth are often invisible to the eye.

2. 02

   Anaesthesia and removal

   The tooth is anaesthetised where necessary and only the decayed tissue is removed, preserving as much sound structure as possible.

3. 03

   Bonding and layering

   The cavity is conditioned, adhesive is applied, and composite is placed in layers and light-cured.

4. 04

   Shaping and polishing

   The anatomy and contact point are rebuilt, the bite is checked, and the surface is polished so it stays smooth and resists staining.

After the treatment

• You can eat as soon as the anaesthesia has worn off — composite is fully set when you leave.
• Short-lived sensitivity to cold after a deep filling is common and usually settles within a couple of weeks.
• If the bite feels high after the anaesthesia wears off, come back for a quick adjustment.

Frequently asked questions

This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Treatment planning is only possible after a clinical examination and radiographs at the clinic.