A regular visit to your dentist ensures that your teeth stay in a great condition and are examined by a professional so that problem areas can be identified and corrected. However from time to time we all may still need a treatment such as a filling.
Fillings are used to restore missing tooth structure by filling the cavity, or hole, in the tooth. Cavities are most commonly the result of tooth decay but other causes include cracked or broken teeth, and teeth that have been damaged by nail biting, tooth grinding or trauma. Once the need for a filling is diagnosed, your dentist will remove the decayed portion of your tooth and then fill the area with the most suitable material in a short pain-free appointment.
What type of filling can I have?
At LS1 Dental Leeds you have a choice. If the cosmetic appearance is important to you and you would like your fillings to match the colour of your teeth, then it is most likely a tooth-coloured composite filling would be your best option. The team can even blend shades so they’ll precisely match your tooth colour. White composite fillings are a very popular choice.
Benefits of white fillings
- They look natural and fit in with your smile
- Quick and affordable way to correct dental flaws
- Only a short appointment needed
- Bonded to the teeth to prevent breakages
Can I replace my old silver amalgam fillings?
A lot of patients come to us asking to replace their old unsightly silver fillings with new tooth coloured composite ones. Most patients wait until there is a need to replace, such as new decay or a broken filling. However, should a patient want us to remove them for personal health reasons or for improved aesthetics, then we can ensure that this is done under the safest possible procedure, quickly and effectively. We achieve fantastic results and improve the overall appearance of a smile for our patients.
Types of fillings
Composite fillings made of a tooth-coloured composite (powdered glass and ceramic added to a resin base) are popular because their colour can be matched to your teeth. Despite advances in technology, composite fillings are not quite as durable as amalgam fillings and they may need to be replaced more frequently. They’re also more expensive than amalgam fillings.
Amalgam fillings are the most common type of silver-coloured restoration. They contain a mixture of metals including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. Although they offer strength and durability, some people don’t like the way they look.
Ceramic fillings are often made of porcelain, which makes them durable and aesthetically pleasing. They are strong and suitable for larger cavities. At LS1 Dental, we have the facility to make ceramic fillings in-house with the use of Cerec technology in just one visit, removing the need to wait for a dental technician to fabricate them off-site.
Gold fillings are requested by some patients as they can be very fashionable. They may cost more than amalgam fillings, but when used and maintained correctly they can last a very long time.
Glass ionomers are often a good choice for children as they can release fluoride, which can help prevent further tooth decay.
