Dental fillings are used to repair & restore worn, decayed and broken teeth.

At CK Dental Health Clinic we will discuss with you the type of filling (material, size etc.…) you may require and explain the advantages and disadvantages of the options available giving you the opportunity to make an informed choice.

What is a Filling?

A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape. When a dentist gives you a filling, he or she first removes the decayed tooth material, cleans the affected area, and then fills the cleaned out cavity with a filling material.

By closing off spaces where bacteria can enter, a filling also helps prevent further decay. Materials used for fillings include gold, porcelain, a composite resin (tooth-colored fillings), and an amalgam (an alloy of mercury, silver, copper, tin and sometimes zinc).

Which Type of Filling is Best?

No one type of filling is best for everyone. What’s right for you will be determined by the extent of the repair, whether you have allergies to certain materials, where in your mouth the filling is needed, and the cost.

Considerations for different materials include:

  • Gold fillings — are made to order in a laboratory and then cemented into place. Gold inlays are well tolerated by gum tissues, and may last more than 20 years. For these reasons, many authorities consider gold the best filling material. However, it is often the most expensive choice and requires multiple visits.
  • Amalgam — (silver) fillings are resistant to wear and relatively inexpensive. However, due to their dark color, they are more noticeable than porcelain or composite restorations and are not usually used in very visible areas, such as front teeth.
  • Composite — (plastic) resins are matched to be the same color as your teeth and therefore used where a natural appearance is desired. The ingredients are mixed and placed directly into the cavity, where they harden. Composites may not be the ideal material for large fillings as they may chip or wear over time. They can also become stained from coffee, tea or tobacco, and do not last as long as other types of fillings generally from three to 10 years.
  •  Porcelain — fillings are called inlays or onlays and are produced to order in a lab and then bonded to the tooth. They can be matched to the color of the tooth and resist staining. A porcelain restoration generally covers most of the tooth. Their cost is similar to gold.
Dental fillings dentist surgery Bishops Stortford
Testimonials

“Friendly team and great care. Dr Kal always takes the time to answer my questions so I feel confident with my treatments.”

Claire Richardson

“It’s easy to park, I’m always seen on time, and my teeth are healthy.”

Peter Evans

“My family have been coming to this dental clinic for years and years and we have all had outstanding treatment and service.”

Shirley Mason

“I always feel everything is thoroughly explained to me, whether it is my check up or any treatment. Also, despite a challenging gag reflex, I have always been made to feel comfortable in the dental chair throughout my treatments. Dr Kal works at a pace comfortable for me.”

Rosemary Anderson

“Dr Kal really really helped my daughter overcome her dental phobia, we used to have tears before appointments but now have smiles. My husband has since joined the practice too!”

Mary Thompson

“I always get an appointment that suits me, and was seen out of hours with a tooth ache. Have recommended to my friends and family.”

Matthew Pearce
General Dental Council Member Bishops Stortford
Quality Care Commission Member Dentist Bishops Stortford
Dental Phobia Certified Dentist Bishops Stortford