Dental Fillings: Types, Procedure and Aftercare
Tooth-coloured composite, glass ionomer, amalgam and more. Understand the options, the procedure and how to look after a new filling.
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The short answer
Restorative dentistry repairs teeth that are decayed, cracked, worn or missing so you can chew comfortably and smile confidently. Depending on the damage, this may be a tooth-coloured filling, a crown that covers and protects the whole tooth, or a bridge that replaces a missing tooth by anchoring to its neighbours.
- What it is
- Fillings, crowns and bridges that rebuild damaged teeth
- Best for
- Decayed, fractured, worn or root-treated teeth, and single missing teeth
- Typical visits
- Fillings often one visit; crowns and bridges usually two
When should you consider crowns & restorative dentistry?
- A visible hole or dark spot on a tooth
- A broken or chipped tooth
- A large old filling that is cracking or leaking
- A tooth that has had a root canal
- Pain when biting down on a particular tooth
- A gap from a missing tooth
If you recognise any of these, a short examination is the best way to find out what is happening and what, if anything, you need.
What happens, step by step
- 1
Assessment
The extent of damage is checked clinically and, where needed, with X-rays.
- 2
Preparation
Decay is removed and the tooth is shaped. For crowns and bridges, an impression or digital scan is taken.
- 3
Temporary protection
If a crown or bridge is being made, a temporary one protects the tooth in the meantime.
- 4
Fitting
The final restoration is checked for fit, bite and shade, then securely bonded in place.
Benefits
- Restores strength and normal chewing
- Tooth-coloured materials blend with your natural teeth
- Protects weak teeth from fracturing further
- Closes gaps and helps keep neighbouring teeth stable
Aftercare and tips
- Avoid very hard or sticky foods on a new restoration for the first day or so
- Brush and clean between teeth carefully, including around crowns and bridges
- Mild sensitivity can occur initially and normally settles
- Attend routine check-ups so restorations can be monitored
Crowns & Restorative Dentistry: frequently asked questions
When is a crown needed instead of a filling?
When too much of the tooth is lost for a filling to hold securely, or the tooth is cracked or has had a root canal, a crown that covers the whole tooth is usually the stronger option.
How long do dental crowns last?
With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, crowns commonly last many years. Habits such as teeth grinding or chewing very hard objects can shorten their life.
Will a crown or filling look natural?
Modern tooth-coloured materials can be matched closely to the shade of your existing teeth, so most restorations are hard to spot.
What is a dental bridge?
A bridge replaces a missing tooth by attaching an artificial tooth to crowns on the teeth either side of the gap. Your dentist can advise whether a bridge or an implant suits you better.
This page is general information, not personal medical advice. Whether this treatment is right for you is decided after a clinical examination by your dentist.
