Fillings For NHS & Private Patients

Fillings are used to replace lost tooth tissue after decay, fractures or tooth wear (due to grinding or erosion)

There are a number of filling materials that can be used, commonly we use:

White fillings (composite)

• White fillings are routinely used for front teeth on the NHS. They are not routinely available on the NHS for back teeth (teeth behind the canine tooth) however they are available privately and can be used in many cases to restore teeth or to replace unsightly amalgam (silver) fillings. White fillings are not only an aesthetic option, they offer increased support and resistance to fracture in some teeth due to the fact they are bonded to the tooth
   

Silver fillings (Amalgam)
 

• Amalgam fillings are offered on the NHS to repair/restore back teeth, they are strong and hard wearing and useful in situations where moisture control is difficult (white fillings must be placed in a very dry environment)