Treatments:
Dental Fillings in Walton on the Hill, Tadworth
Natural-looking tooth fillings and restorations in Tadworth – repair damage, relieve sensitivity and strengthen your smile with gentle, precise care at The Walton Practice.
Tooth decay and minor damage are common issues – but with modern dental fillings, they’re also straightforward to treat. At our practice in Walton on the Hill, Tadworth, we provide high-quality, tooth-coloured fillings designed to restore the strength, function, and natural look of your teeth. Whether you’ve been told you need a filling, suspect a cavity, or want to replace older metal fillings, our experienced team is here to help with personalised care and honest advice.
We know that the idea of needing a filling can feel daunting, especially if you’ve had a negative experience in the past. That’s why we take a calm, considerate approach at every stage – making sure you feel fully informed, comfortable, and in control. Most fillings can be done quickly and painlessly, with excellent long-term results when maintained with good hygiene and routine check-ups.
What Is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is used to repair a tooth that has been affected by decay, cracks, or minor wear. The damaged or decayed part of the tooth is carefully removed, and the space is filled with a material that restores the tooth’s structure, protects it from further damage, and prevents discomfort or infection.
We offer white (composite) fillings that are carefully colour-matched to your natural teeth, so they blend in discreetly and function like a healthy, untouched tooth.
When Might You Need a Filling?
You may need a dental filling if you:
● Have a cavity caused by tooth decay
● Experience tooth sensitivity or discomfort when eating or drinking
● Have chipped or worn a tooth
● Want to replace older silver (amalgam) fillings with tooth-coloured alternatives
Sometimes, fillings are recommended following an accident or if a previous filling has worn down. We’ll always assess your teeth thoroughly and explain your options clearly before recommending treatment.
If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while or you’re unsure about a particular tooth, we’re happy to arrange a full dental check-up and assessment.
Our Approach to Fillings at The Walton Practice
We aim to make your experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. If a filling is needed, we’ll talk you through the process so you know exactly what to expect.
Here’s what a typical appointment involves:
1. Assessment and explanation – We'll identify the tooth that needs treatment, explain the issue, and answer any questions you may have.
2. Anaesthesia (if needed) – Most fillings are pain-free, but if the area is sensitive, we’ll use a local anaesthetic to ensure your comfort.
3. Tooth preparation – The decayed or damaged part of the tooth is gently removed and the area cleaned.
4. Filling placement – A tooth-coloured composite resin is placed, shaped, and hardened with a special light.
5. Finishing – We polish and check the bite to make sure the tooth feels comfortable and natural.
The entire process usually takes around 30–60 minutes, and you can return to your normal routine afterwards.
Benefits of Tooth-Coloured Fillings
We use modern composite fillings as standard for most treatments. These offer several advantages:
Natural appearance – Matched to the shade of your natural teeth
Strong and durable – Bonds securely to the tooth for long-lasting protection
Preserves tooth structure – Requires minimal removal of healthy tissue
Mercury-free – A metal-free, biocompatible material
Whether you need a new filling or want to update old metal ones, we’ll provide a solution that feels comfortable and looks great.
Preventing Future Fillings
Our goal is always to prevent problems before they start. That’s why we focus on regular check-ups and hygiene advice to help you maintain your dental health.
To reduce the need for fillings, we recommend:
● Brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
● Flossing or using interdental brushes every day
● Reducing sugary snacks and acidic drinks
● Attending routine dental examinations and cleanings
If you’re unsure how to improve your at-home care, we’re always happy to offer tailored advice during your visit.
FAQs for Dental Filling
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No – most fillings are pain-free, especially with local anaesthetic. Some patients feel mild pressure during the treatment, but not pain. If you're anxious or have a low pain threshold, please let us know. We always take a gentle, considerate approach to make sure you feel completely comfortable.
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Tooth-coloured (composite) fillings typically last between 5 and 10 years, depending on the size, location, and how well they’re cared for. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help prolong their life. If we ever spot signs of wear or failure, we’ll advise on whether a repair or replacement is needed.
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Yes – we offer safe replacement of older amalgam (metal) fillings with modern composite material. Many patients choose to do this for cosmetic reasons or to avoid visible dark areas when they smile. We’ll assess each case individually and let you know what’s possible. In cases where the silver filling is large or the tooth is significantly darkened, we may recommend a full tooth-coloured crown instead for better asthetics and protection of the tooth.
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Yes, composite resin is widely used and clinically approved for dental use. It’s mercury-free and biocompatible, making it a safe and popular alternative to traditional silver fillings. We only use high-quality materials to ensure strong, long-lasting results.
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It’s best to wait until any numbness has worn off before eating, particularly to avoid accidentally biting your tongue or cheek. The filling material hardens immediately, but we recommend waiting 1–2 hours before chewing on that side – especially with hot or hard foods.