Many patients feel a little surprised when they’re told they need a filling, especially if they aren’t in pain. Two very common question we hear at tooth are:
“A filling? Do I really need one?”, and
“Why do I need a filling?”
The short answer is that fillings are one of the most effective ways to stop tooth decay from getting worse and to protect your tooth for the long term. In this blog, I’ll explain what tooth decay is, what causes it, what a filling actually does, and why modern tooth-coloured fillings (known as white fillings) are a great option.
What Is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay (also known as dental caries) is one of the most common dental problems, and it happens when the hard outer surface of the tooth, the enamel, begins to break down.
Decay occurs when acids produced by bacteria start to dissolve the tooth structure. Over time, this creates a weakened area or hole in the tooth, commonly called a cavity.
Tooth decay doesn’t always cause pain at first, which is why regular dental check-ups are so important. Catching decay early can often prevent more complex treatment later on. And as I’ve mentioned in so many blogs before when it comes to dentistry, prevention is so much better, and cheaper, than cure!
What Causes Decay?
Tooth decay is usually caused by a combination of factors rather than one single issue. The most common causes include:
1. Sugar and Frequent Snacking
When we eat sugary foods or drink sweetened drinks (i.e cola, drinks with sugar), the bacteria in plaque feed on the sugar and produce acid. Frequent snacking or sipping sugary drinks throughout the day gives your teeth repeated acid attacks, increasing the risk of cavities.
2. Plaque Build-Up
Plaque is the sticky film of bacteria that forms naturally on teeth. If it isn’t removed properly through brushing and flossing, it can lead to decay and gum problems.
3. Poor Oral Hygiene
Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the teeth are essential habits. Without them, plaque stays in place and damage can occur.
4. Dry Mouth
Saliva plays an important protective role by washing away food particles and neutralising acids. If you suffer from a dry mouth, decay can develop more easily.
5. Deep Grooves or Hard-to-Reach Areas
Some teeth naturally have deep fissures (grooves) or awkward shapes that make them harder to clean thoroughly, which can increase the risk of decay (this is one of many reasons why regular dental hygiene visits are so important!).
What Is a Filling?
A dental filling is a way of repairing a tooth that has been damaged by decay.
When a cavity forms, the decayed part of the tooth needs to be removed. The space left behind is then filled with a strong restorative material to:
Restore the tooth’s shape
Protect it from further decay
Allow you to bite and chew comfortably
Prevent sensitivity or pain
In other words, a filling helps stop a small problem becoming a much bigger one.
How Does a Filling Work?
The process is usually straightforward and comfortable. At tooth, we focus on gentle, modern dentistry.
A filling typically involves:
Removing the decay: The damaged area is carefully cleaned away.
Preparing the tooth: The tooth is shaped so the filling can bond securely.
Placing the filling material: The filling is applied in layers and hardened with a special light.
Shaping and polishing: The filling is adjusted so it feels natural and looks seamless.
Once completed, the tooth is strong again and protected from further damage.
Why We Only Offer White (Tooth-Coloured) Fillings
At tooth, we provide tooth-coloured composite fillings (white fillings) rather than old fashioned silver/amalgam fillings. Composite fillings are an excellent modern option because they:
Blend in naturally with your tooth
Are mercury-free
Bond directly to the tooth structure
Require less removal of healthy tooth
Provide a strong and aesthetic result
We do not place amalgam (silver) fillings, as we focus on more contemporary, minimally invasive and cosmetic-friendly treatments.
What Happens If I Don’t Have a Filling?
If decay is left untreated, it doesn’t go away, it just progresses and gets worse. A small cavity can eventually become:
A larger hole requiring a bigger restoration
A cracked or weakened tooth
A source of pain or infection
Something which needs treating with root canal treatment
So bad that you may lose the tooth - in severe cases
A simple filling today will often prevent much more complex treatment in the future.
Does Having a Filling Hurt?
Most fillings are very comfortable for the patient, and local anaesthetic is used when needed. Many of our patients are surprised by how quick and straightforward the process is.
Our team at tooth is always happy to talk you through each step, especially if you feel anxious about dental treatment.
What Should I do if I Think I Need a Filling?
If you’ve been told you need a filling, or you suspect you may have early decay and think you need a filling, don’t worry… we’re here to help with our modern approach, gentle care and natural-looking white fillings. And remember, early treatment is the best and cheapest way to protect your smile.
Book your Dental Exam Today
It is so easy to book at dental check up at tooth dental care in London SE1. Our New Patient Exams are only £45, including standard x rays and recall exams are only £50 for those that have seen us before. If you are worried about cavities or decay, or just haven’t been to the Dentist for a while, then click on any of the buttons below to book. We’re open 8am-8pm, so we are shaped around you - and all of my team and I are ready and waiting to help!
Dr. Anna x