Prevent Tooth Decay with Expert Dental Fillings in Acton

What are Dental Fillings?

This is perhaps one of the most common treatments available. Dental fillings are used to restore the tooth after the damaged portion is removed. Damage is usually the result of dental decay caused by dietary choices.

Sometimes you will be able to see dental decay as little black marks in the cusp of your tooth, but sometimes it’s not visible to the eye. In this case, we would need to carry out an X-ray to examine the health of the whole tooth.

Once you have had your full assessment, one of our 24/7 emergency dentists will inform you of any areas of decay and recommend the appropriate treatment. Small areas of decay may be addressed with a filling, while more extensive decay may require an on-lay or root canal treatment.

If you often suffer from dental decay, we can help you to address your oral health problems by looking at ways you can better care for your teeth at home. We can also recommend a visit to the dental hygienist in West London to enjoy a deep and thorough cleaning.

Amalgam Fillings vs Composite Fillings

There are two main choices for your filling material: amalgam and composite. Amalgam fillings were once the most popular type of filling. These dark grey or silver-looking fillings are incredibly durable and long-lasting. Composite fillings are color-matched to your teeth, so this results in a more natural-looking restoration.

When choosing between amalgam and composite fillings, the choice will often come down to aesthetics and budget. Amalgam fillings are cheaper than composite fillings. If you are concerned about your fillings being visible, then composite is the way to go.

Amalgam fillings are made up of a mix of metals, including mercury. While the NHS considers amalgam fillings to be completely safe, some people are still worried about the risks associated with mercury. We take every safety precaution during placement and removal to ensure there is no risk to the patient.

Composite fillings may not last as long as amalgam fillings, particularly on the rear molars where the teeth face a lot of pressure from the force of your bite. As such, you might opt for amalgam fillings if the decay is found in a rear tooth, and composite fillings if the decay is found in a more visible tooth.

How Long do Tooth Fillings Usually Last?

The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material and how well you care for your teeth. Gold fillings tend to last the longest, averaging around 20 years, while ceramic and porcelain fillings can last up to 15 years. Amalgam fillings typically last 10–15 years, and composite fillings may last about 7 years.

Glass ionomer fillings, however, have a shorter lifespan, usually lasting less than 5 years. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help extend the life of any filling and ensure your dental health remains in good shape.

What is Temporary Dental Fillings and How Long Does it Last?

Temporary fillings are used to protect a tooth while awaiting further restorative treatment such as a dental crown. This treatment is commonly performed as part of a root canal procedure.

A temporary tooth filling usually lasts 6–8 weeks but can remain effective for a few months with proper care. However, it is not designed to be permanent and should be replaced with a permanent filling.

How Much Does a Filling Cost?

Filling treatments are incredibly cost effective and start at just £150 per tooth. As always, prevention is better than cure, so we can also help you to improve your oral health habits so there is less risk of you developing another cavity in the future.

It’s also worth noting that some people are more prone to cavities than others. This is due to microscopic grooves that can occur naturally on the chewing surface of the tooth that will make your teeth more susceptible to decay.

Can You Eat After Dental Filling?

After a dental filling, when you can eat depends on the type of filling. Composite (white) fillings harden instantly under the dentist’s blue light, so you can eat immediately after the procedure. It’s best to stick to soft foods like soup, scrambled eggs, or crackers to avoid straining the treated tooth. If you feel pain or swelling, wait until it subsides before eating.

Metal fillings, such as amalgam, take longer to harden, so dentists often advise waiting at least 24 hours before eating solid foods. If a local anesthetic was used, wait until the numbness wears off to prevent biting your lips, cheeks, or tongue. Always consult your dentist for specific recommendations based on your procedure.

Emergency Appointments for Fillings in Acton

If your routine dentist can’t offer you an appointment soon, you don’t have to wait and suffer. We offer an emergency appointment service for non-registered patients so they can deal with their tooth decay and toothache promptly.

Please call us on 07759 998 555 for an appointment in Acton.