Composite Fillings in Finchley Central

You should consider a composite filling when a dental check-up reveals a new cavity that needs treatment. They are also an excellent choice for repairing small chips or cracks on front teeth where appearance matters. Many patients from Finchley Central choose to replace old dark amalgam fillings with white composite ones for a more uniform and natural-looking smile. Good candidates have mild to moderate decay in a tooth that is otherwise structurally sound. The treatment is suitable for restoring both front and back teeth, offering a strong and aesthetic solution.

A filling appointment at our Finchley practice typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes depending on the size and location of the cavity. First, the area is numbed with a local anaesthetic to ensure a completely painless experience. Next, Dr. Reddy carefully removes the decayed portion of the tooth. The tooth surface is then etched and a bonding agent is applied. After this, the composite resin is placed in layers, with each layer being hardened or cured by a blue light. Finally, the filling is shaped and polished to match the contour of your tooth, ensuring a comfortable bite and a smooth, natural finish.

After the appointment, you can usually eat and drink once the anaesthetic wears off, though it is wise to avoid very hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours. You might notice mild sensitivity to hot and cold for a few days, which should fade. To help the filling last 5 to 7 years, maintain excellent oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing. There are no special care requirements beyond a solid daily routine. If you feel a high bite, persistent sharp pain, or the filling feels rough after a few days, call our practice during office hours for an adjustment.

While composite fillings are a popular choice, other options exist. Amalgam (silver) fillings are very durable and often used on back teeth, but they are not as aesthetically pleasing. For larger cavities where more of the tooth structure is lost, a ceramic inlay or onlay might be recommended. These are custom-made restorations that offer superior strength and longevity compared to a direct filling. A recent patient from North Finchley with a large cavity on a molar opted for an onlay, which provided better long-term protection for the tooth. We will discuss all suitable options with you during your consultation.

To choose what's right for you, whether consulting with us or another practice in the Finchley area, here are some important questions to ask: What brand of composite material do you use and why? How long can I expect this filling to last on a molar tooth? Will the filling be noticeable to others? What are the costs if I choose to replace an old amalgam filling? Does my dental insurance (e.g. Denplan, Cigna) cover composite fillings on back teeth?

The cost of a composite filling at our private practice varies with the size of the cavity and the complexity of the placement. Prices are generally higher than NHS or amalgam fillings due to the advanced materials and longer chair time. During your examination, we provide a fully transparent quote with no hidden fees. We are a private-only practice and do not offer NHS services, but we accept dental insurance plans from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please have your policy details available so we can advise on your coverage.