A dental filling is used to repair an area of a tooth that has been damaged by decay, wear or a minor fracture.
The affected area is carefully treated before restorative material is placed to rebuild the tooth.
Modern composite fillings are tooth-coloured and can be shaped to blend naturally with the surrounding tooth.
The aim is to restore both function and appearance while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
You may need a filling if your dentist identifies an area of decay or damage that can be restored without more extensive treatment.
Possible signs include:
However, tooth decay does not always cause symptoms in its early stages.
Regular dental examinations can therefore help identify small areas of decay before they become painful.
Treatment begins with an assessment of the affected tooth.
Your dentist will determine how much of the tooth has been affected and whether a filling is the most suitable treatment.
Where appropriate, the damaged or decayed material is removed and the tooth is prepared for restoration.
Composite material is then placed carefully, shaped and finished to restore the form of the tooth.
Your bite may also be checked before the appointment is completed.
The exact procedure depends on the location and extent of the damage.
Dental decay can progress deeper into a tooth if it is left untreated.
A relatively small area of decay may sometimes be restored with a filling. If the damage reaches deeper structures within the tooth, more complex treatment may eventually be required.
Early treatment may help:
Routine dental examinations and preventive dentistry can play an important role in identifying these problems earlier.
Composite fillings are designed to match the natural appearance of teeth more closely than traditional metallic restorations.
They can be used in suitable front and back teeth depending on the individual clinical situation.
Benefits may include:
Your dentist will assess the tooth before recommending whether composite material is suitable.
Dental fillings do not necessarily last forever.
Existing restorations can become worn, cracked, damaged or develop problems around their edges over time.
During a routine dental examination, your dentist can check existing fillings for signs of:
A filling does not automatically need replacing simply because it is old.
Treatment should be based on the condition of the restoration and the tooth beneath it.
Sometimes a tooth has lost too much structure to be restored predictably with a simple filling.
Depending on the extent of the problem, your dentist may discuss other options.
These may include:
Your dentist will explain why another treatment may be more appropriate before anything proceeds.
We aim to keep treatment fees clear.
Composite fillings at Medical Dental Spa currently start from £180.
The final cost can depend on factors such as the tooth being treated and the extent of the restoration required.
Your dentist will assess the tooth first and explain the recommended treatment and associated fee before proceeding.
Where a different restoration is more appropriate, this will also be discussed with you.
Fillings form one part of wider general dental care.
At Medical Dental Spa, patients can access routine examinations, preventive care, gum treatment, root canal treatment, crowns, extractions and emergency dental care when required.
For an overview of these services, visit our General Dentistry in West Hampstead page.
New patients are welcome.
If you think you may need a filling, the first step is normally a dental examination.
Your dentist can assess the tooth, determine whether decay or damage is present and explain the appropriate treatment.
You may also be advised about preventive steps that can reduce the risk of further decay.
You do not need to diagnose the problem before booking.
Composite fillings at Medical Dental Spa currently start from £180. The exact fee depends on the treatment required.
Yes. Composite restorative material can be selected to blend with the natural colour of the tooth.
Decay or minor damage may cause sensitivity, discomfort or visible changes, but some problems have no obvious symptoms. A dental examination is the best way to determine whether treatment is needed.
Yes, where clinically necessary. Your dentist can assess whether an existing restoration is damaged, worn or affected by further decay.
If a simple filling is not appropriate, your dentist may discuss alternatives such as root canal treatment or a dental crown, depending on the condition of the tooth.
Yes. New patients can book a dental examination before receiving a personalised treatment recommendation.
A lost filling accompanied by significant pain may require urgent assessment. If the problem is severe, use our dedicated Emergency Dentist in West Hampstead service.
