If you’ve been told you may need a filling, or you’ve started to notice sensitivity, a rough edge on a tooth, or occasional discomfort when eating, it’s natural to feel a little unsure about what comes next.
For many patients, fillings are one of the most common treatments, but that doesn’t always make them feel straightforward. You might be wondering whether it will hurt, how long it will take, or how much it will cost.
At Savona Dental in Canary Wharf, we aim to take the uncertainty out of the process. Our approach is to explain everything clearly, take things at your pace and make sure you feel comfortable from start to finish.
What Is a Tooth Filling?
A filling is used to repair a tooth that has been affected by decay or minor damage. Over time, small areas of decay can develop where plaque and bacteria weaken the tooth surface. If left untreated, this can progress and lead to more complex problems.
A filling works by gently removing the damaged area and restoring the tooth with a protective material. This not only stops the decay from spreading, but also allows the tooth to function normally again.
In many cases, patients are surprised at how simple and manageable the process actually is, especially when treated early.
Types of Tooth Fillings
One of the most common questions we’re asked is, “What kind of filling will I need?”
At Savona Dental, we focus on modern, aesthetic solutions that prioritise both function and appearance.
Composite (White) Fillings
Composite fillings are now the most popular choice in private dentistry. They are carefully colour-matched to your natural tooth, meaning they blend in seamlessly with your smile.
Beyond aesthetics, they are also strong and durable. The material bonds directly to the tooth, allowing us to preserve more of your natural structure. For many patients, this makes them feel like a more modern and reassuring option compared to older materials.
Temporary Fillings
Temporary fillings are sometimes used as a short-term solution, particularly in emergency situations where a tooth is broken or when treatment is being completed in stages.
While they are not designed to last long-term, they play an important role in protecting the tooth and keeping you comfortable until the next step of treatment.
How Much Do Fillings Cost in Canary Wharf?
We understand that cost is often one of the first things patients want clarity on, especially when planning treatment.
At Savona Dental, we aim to keep our pricing transparent and easy to understand:
- Composite (white) fillings – from £150
- Temporary fillings – £50
The exact cost will depend on the size and complexity of the filling. For example, a small surface filling will be quicker and simpler than one that involves multiple areas of the tooth.
What’s most important is that you’ll always be given a clear explanation of costs before any treatment begins, so there are no surprises.
What Happens During a Filling Appointment?
For many people, the idea of a filling is often worse than the reality.
When you arrive, we begin by taking a careful look at the tooth and explaining what we can see. If needed, we may take a digital scan or X-ray to get a more detailed picture.
Before any treatment starts, the area is gently numbed using a local anaesthetic. This ensures that you remain comfortable throughout. Most patients describe this part as far easier than expected.
Once the tooth is numb, the decayed area is carefully removed. The space is then cleaned and prepared before the filling material is placed and shaped to restore the tooth’s natural form.
With composite fillings, a special light is used to harden the material. We then make small adjustments to ensure your bite feels completely normal.
The entire process is typically quick and controlled, often completed within 20 to 40 minutes.
Will It Hurt?
With modern techniques and a gentle approach, most patients feel very little discomfort during a filling. The anaesthetic ensures the area is numb, and we take care to move at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
After the appointment, you may notice some mild sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold foods. This is usually temporary and settles within a few days.
For many patients, the biggest surprise is how manageable the experience feels compared to what they expected.
Recovery After a Filling
Recovery is generally very straightforward, and most patients return to normal activities the same day.
As the numbness wears off, it’s best to take care when eating to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Some people prefer to stick to softer foods for the first day, especially if the tooth feels slightly sensitive.
It’s also normal for a newly placed filling to feel a little different at first. Your bite should feel natural, but if anything feels slightly high or uncomfortable, we can easily adjust it.
Most importantly, if anything doesn’t feel quite right after a few days, we always encourage you to get in touch. We’re here to help.
How Long Do Fillings Last?
Fillings are designed to be durable, but like any dental treatment, their lifespan depends on how they’re looked after.
With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, composite fillings can last many years, often between 5 to 10 years or more.
Over time, normal wear and tear can occur, particularly if you grind your teeth or consume a lot of sugary or acidic foods. Regular reviews allow us to monitor your fillings and maintain them before any issues develop.
Looking After Your Fillings
Looking after a filling doesn’t require anything complicated, it’s really about maintaining good overall oral health.
Brushing twice a day, cleaning between your teeth, and attending regular check-ups will all help protect both your fillings and your natural teeth.
Many patients find that once a filling is in place and comfortable, they quickly forget about it altogether, which is exactly how it should feel.
A Calm, Reassuring Approach at Savona Dental
We know that even routine dental treatments can feel like a big step, particularly if you’ve had a negative experience in the past or haven’t visited a dentist for some time.
That’s why our focus is not just on the treatment itself, but on how you feel throughout the process.
At Savona Dental, we take the time to:
- Listen to your concerns
- Explain your options clearly
- Deliver treatment gently and without rushing
For many patients, that difference in approach is what changes how they feel about visiting the dentist altogether.
Book a Filling Appointment in Canary Wharf
If you think you may need a filling, or simply want reassurance – we’re here to help.
