A dental filling is a restorative treatment used to repair minor tooth damage caused by decay, wear, or trauma. The filling material replaces the portion of the tooth that has been lost, sealing the tooth to prevent further decay and restoring its original shape, strength, and function.
At York House Dental Practice, we offer a range of filling materials to suit your needs, including:
Composite (white) fillings: Tooth-coloured resin that blends in seamlessly with your natural teeth
Amalgam (silver) fillings: Strong, durable option, often used for back teeth
Glass ionomer fillings: Often used in children or for temporary restorations
Ceramic or porcelain inlays/onlays: Aesthetic, stain-resistant options for larger restorations
We’ll help you choose the right material based on the size of the cavity, the tooth location, and your aesthetic preferences.
Dental fillings are used to:
Repair teeth affected by dental decay (cavities)
Restore teeth damaged by grinding, chipping, or acid erosion
Strengthen weakened teeth to prevent further breakage
Stop bacteria from entering and causing more damage
Maintain proper bite and oral function
Preserve your natural teeth and avoid more invasive treatments later
Prompt treatment of cavities can help you avoid pain, infection, and the need for root canal or extraction.
Getting a dental filling is a straightforward and comfortable process. At York House Dental Practice, we prioritise gentle care and precision.
We start by examining the tooth and taking X-rays if needed to assess the extent of the decay or damage.
To ensure a pain-free experience, we numb the area around the tooth with local anaesthetic.
We carefully remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth using specialised instruments, leaving a clean, healthy base.
The cavity is shaped and cleaned to ensure the filling will bond securely.
We apply the chosen filling material in layers, curing each layer with a special light if necessary (for composite fillings). We then shape and polish the filling to match your bite and the natural contours of your tooth.
Once the filling is in place, we check your bite and make small adjustments to ensure comfort and proper function.
The entire procedure usually takes 20–40 minutes per tooth and is often completed in a single visit.
Restore the natural function of the tooth
Prevent further decay or damage
Strengthen weakened teeth
Aesthetic, tooth-coloured options available
Minimally invasive and completed in one visit
Improves chewing comfort and bite alignment
Long-lasting results with proper care
Modern dental fillings are designed to be durable, comfortable, and discreet, helping you maintain your smile with confidence.
After receiving a filling, it’s important to follow a few simple aftercare steps to ensure optimal healing and longevity:
Wait until the numbness wears off before eating to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue
Avoid very hot or cold foods for the first day if your teeth are sensitive
If you experience any discomfort when biting, let us know so we can adjust the filling
Maintain good oral hygiene: brush twice daily and floss once a day
Avoid biting hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails
Attend regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of the filling
With proper care, most fillings last 7–15 years or more, depending on the material used and your oral habits.
You may need a filling if:
You have a visible cavity or dark spot on a tooth
You feel tooth sensitivity when eating sweet, hot, or cold foods
Your tooth is chipped, worn down, or cracked
You experience pain when chewing
You have an old filling that has fallen out or deteriorated
Our team will perform a thorough exam to determine the best course of action and recommend the most suitable treatment.
At York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet, we combine compassionate care with clinical expertise. When you visit us for dental fillings, you can expect:
Experienced dentists skilled in restorative care
State-of-the-art technology and gentle techniques
A wide range of high-quality filling materials
Transparent, honest advice with no unnecessary treatments
Calm and friendly environment for nervous patients
We focus on restoring your oral health in the most comfortable and effective way possible.
Don’t wait for a small cavity to become a big problem. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, pain, or suspect you may need a filling, contact York House Dental Practice today.
Call us at 019323 48864 or use our online booking system to schedule your appointment.
