Temporary & Permanent Fillings

Sussex Emergency dentist can offer immediate assessment and fitting of temporary and permanent fillings

Dental fillings are used to restore the function and integrity of a tooth that has been damaged by decay or fracture. Depending on the situation and the material used, fillings can be temporary or permanent. Here’s a detailed comparison of both types:

A temporary filling, also known as a provisional or interim filling, is used to protect a tooth temporarily while waiting for a more permanent restoration. Temporary fillings are designed to last a few weeks to a few months. They are not as durable as permanent fillings and should be replaced with a permanent restoration as soon as possible to ensure long-term protection of the tooth.

A permanent filling is a restorative dental procedure used to repair teeth affected by decay, cracks, or fractures. Unlike temporary fillings, permanent fillings are designed to last for many years and provide long-term protection and functionality to the damaged tooth.

Procedure for Placing a Temporary Filling:

  1. Anaesthetic
    • Local anaesthetic may be used to numb the area if the procedure involves deep decay or is expected to be uncomfortable.
  2. Tooth Preparation
    • The dentist cleans out the decay or debris from the tooth.
  3. Filling Placement
    • The temporary filling material is placed into the cavity and shaped to fit the tooth.
  4. Setting
    • Depending on the material, the filling may be left to set on its own or might need light curing.
  5. Adjustment
    • The dentist ensures the filling is smooth and comfortable, making any necessary adjustments.

It’s crucial to follow up with your dentist to replace the temporary filling with a permanent one. Temporary fillings are not meant for long-term use and can lead to complications like further decay or infection if left in place too long.

Procedure for Placing a Permanent Filling

  1. Anaesthetic
    • Local anaesthetic is administered to numb the area around the affected tooth.
  2. Decay Removal
    • The dentist removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth using a dental drill or laser.
  3. Tooth Preparation
    • The cavity is cleaned and shaped to ensure the filling will fit properly.
  4. Filling Placement:
    • Amalgam: Mixed and packed into the cavity.
    • Composite Resin: Applied in layers, with each layer being hardened using a special light.
    • Ceramic/Gold: Typically require impressions of the tooth to be made for custom fitting and may involve a temporary filling while the permanent one is fabricated.
  5. Shaping and Polishing
    • The filling is shaped to fit the natural contours of the tooth and polished to smooth any rough edges.

Permanent fillings are essential for restoring the function and integrity of a tooth, preventing further decay, and maintaining overall oral health. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene practices can help ensure the longevity of permanent fillings.

Google Reviews

Sau Ping Ho
Sau Ping Ho
3. June, 2024
Dr. Dan Roworth,thanks so much for your professionalism in extracting the bad teeth.
Debby Bond
Debby Bond
24. May, 2024
I have seen Dr Fahad Jamil twice now and he has been very gentle and reassuring. Both he and his assistant were very professional and talked me through what they were doing at all times. He also gave me very good aftercare advice. The clinic is very clean and modern and the staff on arrival are helpful and welcoming. Nobody enjoys going to the dentist but it was as good as it could be!
Lucy Greaves Lord
Lucy Greaves Lord
21. May, 2024
Dr Jamil extracted my son’s wisdom tooth yesterday. My son is deaf and struggles with communication, he was very impressed with Dr Jamil’s deaf awareness. So impressed that he checked whether I’d written this review today !! Thank you.
Charlotte Barr
Charlotte Barr
13. May, 2024
Dr Jamil and his assistant were really kind, reassuring and gentle when having my tooth extraction. Dr Jamil explained everything fully and it was painless/quick extraction. Thank you!
A Z
A Z
3. May, 2024
Referral here from my dentist, excellent and caring treatment - thank you
Chris Courtneidge
Chris Courtneidge
8. April, 2024
2 wisdom teeth out within 6 minutes of arriving. Zero pain and the people/dentists are brilliant!
Rosemary _Holistics
Rosemary _Holistics
21. February, 2024
I was referred here yesterday to have a wisdom tooth extracted. The oral surgeon was Faizal Sameja. Lovely guy. I was scared and I was in pain with this tooth for several weeks beforehand. After the anaesthetic kicked in, the actual extraction took about 5 minutes, if that. He was so skilful and his assistant was also very reassuring. In fact it was so quick and I was so relieved I think I laughed! All the staff I met at this dental practice were calm, efficient and friendly. I was expecting to be in pain last night and today but I have only taken 2 paracetamol since.
Max Mitchell
Max Mitchell
19. February, 2024
Dr Fahad Jamil was very friendly, calming and welcoming when I went for an extraction. Straightforward procedure and accomodating afterwards. Thanks