Fillings

All our dentists have been trained to provide high-quality fillings that mimic a natural tooth.

The procedure for a composite filling may be as follows:

1. Fully numb the area using anaesthetic gel, followed by a local anaesthetic (if required).
2. Apply a rubber dam, which is a sheet that helps keep the tooth dry during the procedure. It is comfortable and helps prop the mouth open, plus keeps any water or filling material used out of the mouth as it lands on the rubber dam.
3. The tooth is cleaned of decay using the latest and most efficient handpieces.
4. A matrix band may be applied to the tooth, which helps predictably determine the shape of the filling as it is built up.
5. The clean cavity surface is prepared with a special gel, and then the tooth is built up in layers of composite and set hard using a UV light.
6. The filling is then shaped like a natural tooth and polished, and then the rubber dam is removed. The bite is checked and adjusted if it feels too high.

Short-term sensitivity can be normal from a new, and especially if deep, filling. Your dentist will advise you following the procedure but some common ways to reduce sensitivity include:

• Contact your dentist if the bite feels high.
• Avoid extremes of temperature for 2 – 3 weeks (eg hot tea/ice cream) to allow the tooth to settle down.
• Apply sensitive fluoride toothpaste to the tooth a few times a day.
• Avoid heavy chewing and grinding on the new filling for 2 – 3 weeks.

If symptoms worsen or persist, see your dentist.