Fillings

Tooth-coloured fillings that blend in with your natural smile.

What it's for

When decay damages part of a tooth, a filling removes the affected area and rebuilds it with a tooth-coloured material.

It restores strength and function without the dark metal look of older amalgam fillings.

01
We explain first
Dr Dineo shows you which tooth needs the filling and why, and answers your questions before anything starts.
02
Numbing
A local anaesthetic numbs the area so the treatment is comfortable.
03
Removing the decay
The damaged part of the tooth is carefully cleaned away.
04
Rebuilding the tooth
A tooth-coloured filling is shaped to fit and matched to your natural shade.
05
Bite check
We check your bite feels normal before you go.

Numbness usually wears off within a few hours. Some sensitivity to hot or cold for a few days is common and usually settles on its own.

Wait until the numbness has completely worn off before eating, so you don't bite your cheek, tongue or lips.
Avoid hard or sticky foods until it feels comfortable, particularly if the filling is large.
Mild sensitivity to cold, heat or biting may happen for a short time.
Brush and floss as normal, taking care around the treated tooth.
Contact the clinic if your bite feels uneven, the filling breaks, or sensitivity carries on or gets worse.

Will it hurt?

The area is numbed first, so you should feel pressure rather than pain. Tell us at any point if you're uncomfortable.

Can I eat afterwards?

Wait until the numbness has worn off, usually 2 to 3 hours, and chew on the other side for the rest of the day.

Pick a time that suits you. It takes about a minute.