Dental fillings in Larkfield, Kent
A filling is one of the most common dental treatments — and one of the most effective. If a tooth is damaged by decay or wear, a filling restores it back to its natural shape and stops the problem from getting worse. We use tooth-coloured composite fillings that blend naturally with your smile.
Restoring your smile
what is a dental filling?
A dental filling is a material placed into a tooth to repair damage caused by decay, a crack, or general wear. The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is removed first, and the filling seals the space — protecting what's left of the tooth structure, restoring its strength, and preventing bacteria from getting back in.
At Larkfield Dental Aesthetics, we use tooth-coloured composite resin fillings as standard. These are matched to the shade of your natural teeth, so they're virtually invisible — unlike the silver (amalgam) fillings many patients may remember from years gone by. Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth, which also means we can be more conservative with how much tooth structure we remove.
When would you need one? →
Signs to watch for
when would you need a filling?
You may need a filling if any of the following apply.
Decay found at your check-up
Your dentist finds decay at your check-up — often before you've noticed any symptoms.
Tooth sensitivity
Sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold foods and drinks can be an early sign a filling is needed.
A visible hole or dark spot
You can see or feel a hole, dark spot, or rough area on a tooth.
A chipped or cracked tooth
A chipped or cracked tooth that needs repair to restore its shape and strength.
A failing existing filling
An existing filling has cracked, come loose, or worn down over time.
Replacing amalgam fillings
Replacing an old amalgam (silver) filling with a more natural-looking alternative.
It's worth noting that decay doesn't always cause pain in its early stages. This is one of the key reasons regular check-ups matter — catching and filling a small cavity is far simpler (and less expensive) than treating a tooth once the decay has reached the nerve.
How it works
what happens during a filling appointment?
Getting a filling is a routine and straightforward procedure. Most appointments take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the size and position of the cavity.
Numbing the area
We start with a local anaesthetic so you're completely comfortable throughout.
Removing the decay
Your dentist gently removes the decayed material and cleans the tooth.
Placing the filling
The tooth-coloured composite is placed in layers, sealing and protecting the tooth.
Shaping & polishing
The filling is shaped and polished to match your bite — over before you know it.
Most patients can eat normally within a couple of hours once the anaesthetic wears off.
Aftercare
looking after your filling
Composite fillings are durable and long-lasting, but they do need the same care as your natural teeth. Here's how to get the best from yours:
- ✓ Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- ✓ Floss or use interdental brushes daily — decay at the edges of fillings is common when cleaning between teeth is neglected.
- ✓ Avoid using your teeth as tools (opening packets, biting nails) — this can chip composite fillings.
- ✓ If you grind your teeth at night, ask us about a nightguard — grinding places significant stress on fillings and can shorten their lifespan.
- ✓ Attend regular check-ups — your dentist will check your fillings at every appointment and flag any signs of wear or leakage early.
- ✓ With good care, composite fillings typically last 7–10 years or longer.
Fees & finance
How much does a filling cost?
The cost of a filling at Larkfield Dental Aesthetics depends on the size of the cavity and the amount of tooth material involved. Larger or more complex fillings take longer and use more material. We will always give you the cost in writing before starting any treatment, so there are no surprises.
Please visit our Fees & Finance page or call us on 01732 521123 for current pricing.
General dentistry
Related treatments
Questions
frequently asked
Does getting a filling hurt? +
No. We use a local anaesthetic before the procedure so the tooth and surrounding area is completely numb. You may feel some pressure and vibration, but you should not experience any pain. If at any point you feel discomfort, raise your hand and we'll stop immediately.
How long does a filling last? +
Composite fillings typically last up to 10 years with good care, though many last longer. Their lifespan depends on the size of the filling, where it is in the mouth, and your habits (grinding, diet, home care routine). Your dentist will monitor your fillings at every check-up.
Can I replace my old silver fillings with white ones? +
Yes, many patients choose to replace old amalgam fillings with tooth-coloured composite. This is a purely private treatment and can be done at any time. We'll assess your existing fillings and let you know which ones would benefit from replacement and which are best left alone.
What's the difference between a filling and a crown? +
A filling repairs a relatively small area of damage within the tooth structure. A crown is used when a tooth is too damaged or weakened for a filling to be sufficient — it covers the entire visible part of the tooth, providing much greater strength and protection. Your dentist will always recommend the most conservative option that will work for your tooth.
Ready to book?
we'd love to help
Call us on 01732 521123 or email hello@larkfielddentalcare.co.uk — we'd love to help.