Bacteria accumulate when food particles and plaque remain on your teeth for extended periods.
The bacteria release acids which dissolve your tooth enamel and create a cavity. When this occurs, you will require a filling.
What materials are used for fillings?
Fillings can be made from silver amalgam or tooth-coloured composite resin. At our practice, we exclusively place tooth-coloured ‘white’ fillings and are proud to be ‘Amalgam-Free’.
How much will it cost?
The price of a filling can vary because it is based on the material being used, the size of the filling and the amount of the remaining tooth structure.
What should I expect after a filling?
You may feel some mild to moderate sensitivity for about 48 hours.
How long will my filling last?
A filling usually lasts 5-7 years on average but needs regular dental exams to ensure it is holding up well. Biannual dental cleanings can help prolong the life of your filling.
If you are experiencing any tooth sensitivity, chipped off areas that your tongue often goes into or holes in your teeth where food becomes trapped, call our practice on 01603 505443 for a consultation.
Inlays and Onlays
Sometimes, a tooth cavity is too large to be corrected using tooth fillings, or the tooth damage doesn’t justify fitting a dental crown.
In situations like these, your dentist may recommend using a form of restoration called an inlay or only to repair your tooth.
What are inlays and onlays?
An inlay is a prefabricated dental restoration that can fill a large cavity in between the edges of the tooth.
An onlay works in the same fashion as the inlay, but it is larger extending over the cusps to provide additional tooth support and a stronger chewing surface for your tooth.
At the dental lab, your inlays and onlays can be customised based on the size and shape of your tooth. The result should match the colour of your existing tooth for a seamless and attractive look.
How are inlays and onlays fitted?
The entire process usually requires 2 visits of less than an hour each.
On your first session, your dentist inspects the affected tooth to determine whether your tooth is suitable for an inlay or an onlay.
Next, using local anaesthesia to numb the area (if required), your dentist removes the decayed part of the cavity, preparing it for your inlay or onlay.
After preparation is finished, your dentist takes a scan of your tooth and sends it to the dental lab, where your customised inlay or onlay is customised to fit your tooth perfectly. Our clinic is equipped with the state-of-the-art 3Shape TRIOS Scanner that takes scans of your teeth quickly and accurately, so your restoration is precisely customised to fit your mouth.
At your follow-up visit, your dentist checks the fitting, then permanently bonds the custom inlay or onlay to your tooth for an attractive and long-lasting restoration.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With the right oral care, an inlay or onlay can typically last for up to 10 years or more. Regular brushing and flossing your teeth, along with visits to the dentist twice a year can prolong the lifespan of your inlay or onlay.
For a brighter and healthier smile, please call Newmarket Road Dental Clinic on 01603 505 443 or Contact us
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