What Is a Dental Filling?

Human teeth are extremely robust, but they’re not invincible. Dental caries otherwise known as decay is caused by bacteria and poor oral hygiene, creating small holes or lesions (known commonly as cavities in the USA) in the surface enamel of your teeth. When these holes are formed, your dentist will likely recommend having the decay removed and a filling fitted to restore the tooth’s function and prevent further damage from occurring.

But what is a filling exactly, and when might you need one?

In this guide, we’ll explore the world of dental fillings, providing information on their purpose, the various materials used to make a filling, the procedure itself and any potential risks and complications that can arise – particularly in cases of dental negligence.

If you’ve already had a filling fitted and something went wrong during the procedure, you may be eligible to open a dental negligence claim. To get started, please contact our expert team or request a callback at your leisure.

What Is a Filling and Why Might You Need One?

A filling is a common dental procedure used to repair and restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay. Whilst tooth decay is usually the main reason for having a filling fitted, fillings may also be required in situations involving cracked, chipped or worn-down teeth (often from bruxism, a tooth grinding condition).

Decay is usually caused by bacteria in your mouth, which feed on sugars and starches left behind from food. These bacteria then produce acids that weaken and destroy the tooth enamel, forming holes in your teeth. It’s important to get tooth decay treated as quickly as possible, as if left untreated over time it can affect the dentine and potentially reach the pulp, which can lead to dental infections, pain and tooth loss.

The main reasons for having a filling fitted are:

• Removing decay: By removing decay, your dentist can prevent further tooth damage.
• Restoring function: Your filling should replace the lost tooth structure and restore your tooth back to its normal function, allowing you to chew properly.
• Preventing further decay: By having a filling fitted, you will prevent bacteria from entering the tooth, reducing the risk of further decay.
• Aesthetic: Whilst fillings are largely an oral health treatment, their colouring can also be matched to the colour of your natural teeth by using ceramic material or resin, maintaining the appearance of your smile.

Resin fillings are often known as ‘white fillings’ and may cost more to fit when compared to traditional amalgam fillings.

What Filling Materials Are Usually Used?

There are now several material types you’ll commonly find used for this form of dental treatment. The most popular types of filling material in the UK are:

• Amalgam fillings: Amalgam fillings are the most common type of filling available at the moment, made from a mixture of metals including mercury, tin, silver and copper. They have a silver colouring and are extremely durable and strong, making them a good choice for your health. However, amalgam fillings are less aesthetically desirable than other filling types, although they tend to be more affordable.
• Composite Fillings: Composite cavity fillings are made from a tooth-coloured resin material – their white colouring offers a more natural and aesthetically pleasing look. Composite fillings may not be as durable as their amalgam alternatives and may require replacement sooner, making them more expensive. However, these fillings can bond directly to the tooth, supporting the remaining tooth structure.
• Gold Fillings: As you might expect, gold fillings are made from gold and are extremely durable and long-lasting. However, they’re often the most expensive option, due to the use of a precious metal and the fact that they usually require multiple visits to place.
• Ceramic Fillings: Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain, which makes them highly resistant to staining and wear. They can be more brittle than other materials and may chip and fracture, although they’re also suitable for people with metal allergies.

It’s important to note here that whilst amalgam fillings are still used within the UK, they are slowly being phased out in many dental practices across the country. This is because the European Union banned the use of dental amalgam in January 2015 to protect both human health and the environment from mercury. Whilst the UK is not strictly bound by EU legislation anymore and amalgam fillings are still used here, these fillings are slowly being phased out in some areas.

When you go to your dental consultation, your dentist should discuss the best filling material for your specific needs, considering your budget, aesthetic preferences and the extent of the decay. If your dentist fails to inform you properly of your options and the risks involved (including any alternative procedures available), you may be able to open a failure to gain informed consent dental negligence claim.

The Filling Procedure: What to Expect

Having a filling fitted is usually a straightforward dental procedure that can be completed in a single visit. Every situation is different, but the filling process usually follows these steps:

1. Numbing: Before starting work on your teeth, your dentist should numb the affected area around the tooth with a local anaesthetic.
2. Decay removal: In some cases, your dentist may need to remove decayed and weakened areas of your tooth. This will usually be conducted by using a dental drill or laser.
3. Tooth preparation: Next, your dentist will prepare the tooth for the filling by cleaning, shaping and drying the area. In some scenarios, they may also need to apply a liner or base to protect the pulp.
4. Filling placement: The chosen filling material will then be placed in the prepared cavity, before shaping it to restore the natural form of your tooth.
5. Curing (for composite fillings): If composite fillings are required, a special light will be used to harden and cure the composite material.
6. Polishing: Finally, your dentist will polish the filling to ensure a smooth and comfortable bite, before checking if your bite feels right once completed.

It’s normal to feel temporary sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures for a day or two, as well as some minor discomfort after your dental procedure. However, if the pain doesn’t subside or seems to get worse, you should speak to your dentist as soon as possible. 

You should follow all the aftercare steps provided by your dentist – if they fail to provide you with the correct post-operative steps and something goes wrong, you may be able to start the dental negligence claims process.

Dealing with Dental Negligence After a Filling

Understanding what a filling is and why these procedures are necessary is an important part of maintaining good oral health, helping reduce the risk of tooth decay in the first place. If a filling is required, the procedure can help restore the natural function of your tooth and prevent further damage from occurring, so it’s important to have the treatment carried out if your dentist recommends it.

However, if you’ve already had a dental filling fitted and you have concerns or suspect dental negligence, please don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. At the Dental Law Partnership, we’re a firm of dental solicitors who can provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate the claims process and protect your dental rights.

You can start your claim immediately by completing our online claim form. If you’d like to speak to a member of our team first, we’ll be happy to help – please contact us on 0800 152 2031.