Dental fillings in Shepshed
Fillings are a simple way to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay or minor cracks. They stop problems from getting worse – and help keep your tooth strong and comfortable.
We use modern materials that blend in with your natural tooth, so most fillings are barely noticeable.
When we recommend a dental filling
Tooth enamel is incredibly strong, but it is not invincible. Over time, plaque can wear away at the surface and lead to tiny holes – known as cavities. If caught early, we can repair the damage with a small filling before it becomes a bigger issue.
Not all cavities cause pain – that is why regular check-ups are so important. They help us spot problems early, often before you even notice them.
There’s a cavity caused by tooth decay
A tooth is chipped or cracked from wear, injury, or grinding
An old filling has broken or fallen out
You are getting sensitivity or discomfort in one area
Small repairs, lasting care
What are dental fillings?
Dental fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, cracks or everyday wear. They work by filling in the part of the tooth that has been lost or weakened, helping to restore its shape, strength and function.
We use modern, tooth-coloured materials that bond securely to your tooth and blend in with your natural smile. Once in place, a filling protects the tooth and helps stop further damage – so you can chew, speak and smile with confidence.
Fillings are one of the most common treatments we carry out, and when done early, they are a simple way to avoid more complex problems later on.
Looking after your filling
Fillings are strong, but they still need care. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between your teeth, and coming in for regular check-ups will help your filling – and the tooth around it – last as long as possible.
Try to avoid chewing very hard foods on newly filled teeth for the first day or so, just to give everything time to settle.
What types of fillings do we use?
We use tooth-coloured composite fillings as standard. These are carefully matched to your natural tooth shade and shaped to blend in smoothly – so they feel comfortable and look completely natural.
Composite fillings are strong and long-lasting. They bond directly to the tooth, which means we can keep more of the healthy structure intact. They are suitable for both front and back teeth, and they work well under everyday pressure from chewing.
If there is anything specific to your tooth that needs extra attention, we will always explain your options clearly before we start.
Getting a filling is typically quick and comfortable:
We will gently numb the area so you do not feel anything during treatment.
Any decayed or weakened part of the tooth is carefully removed.
The area is cleaned to make sure it is clear of bacteria and ready for the filling.
The filling is placed, shaped and polished so it feels smooth and looks natural.
The dental fillings procedure
You might be wondering...
How long do dental fillings last?
It depends on the material and how well you look after your teeth, but most fillings last several years – often 7 to 10 or more. Good brushing, regular check-ups and avoiding very hard or sticky foods can help them last longer.
How often do fillings need to be redone?
There is no fixed rule. Some fillings last decades, others need replacing sooner. We check your fillings at every routine appointment and will only recommend redoing one if there are signs of wear, damage or decay underneath.
How do I know if my filling needs replacing?
You might notice sensitivity, pain when biting, or a rough edge. Sometimes old fillings become loose or chipped. But often, there are no symptoms – which is why regular check-ups are important. We will spot any issues early.
What happens when fillings get old?
Old fillings can wear down, crack or pull away from the tooth slightly. That creates tiny gaps where bacteria can get in, increasing the risk of decay. If we spot a problem, we will clean the area and place a new filling to protect the tooth.
Can you put a filling on top of a filling?
In some cases, yes – we can add to or replace part of a filling if it is damaged. But often, it is better to fully replace the old one to make sure the tooth is properly sealed and protected.
