Restorative

Replacing metal fillings

Older metal fillings do not bond to the tooth. Over the years that leaves the tooth more likely to fracture, and decay can start underneath them where it cannot be seen. Replacing them with tooth-coloured restorations rebuilds and protects the tooth.

Who it may suit

These are reasons people come in to discuss it, not a checklist that decides whether it is right for you.

Large or repeatedly repaired metal fillings
A cracked cusp, or a tooth that is uncomfortable on biting
Decay identified at the edge of an existing restoration
Lower teeth where a metal filling shows when you talk or laugh

Overview

Metal fillings do not bond to the tooth structure. They sit in the tooth rather than joining to it, which leaves the tooth more likely to fracture over the years and lets decay start underneath the filling, out of sight.

Replacing one with a tooth-coloured restoration bonds to the remaining tooth, rebuilds its shape and helps protect it. Where a tooth is mostly filling material, an onlay or a crown holds the cusps together more reliably than another direct filling.

There is a cosmetic reason too: tooth-coloured restorations improve the appearance of the smile, especially on the lower teeth that can show when you talk or laugh.

Consultation and assessment

An examination with radiographs establishes whether a restoration is failing and what remains of the tooth beneath it. Replacement is recommended where there is a clinical reason for it.

What the process looks like

Examination
Assessment of the existing restorations, radiographs, and a check of the bite and any cracks.
Plan
An agreed sequence, with the likely restoration type for each tooth and what might change once the old filling is out.
Treatment
The old restoration and any decay are removed, and the tooth is rebuilt or prepared for a laboratory-made restoration.
Review
A follow-up to check the bite, the contact points and the gum around the new restoration.

Common questions

Should I have all my metal fillings replaced?

White fillings last longer and preserve more of the tooth in the long term. Whether you change your fillings is up to you, but Dr Rakesh may recommend a crown or an onlay where a tooth is mostly filling material and at risk of fracture.

Will a white filling be as strong?

Modern materials perform well when the tooth around them is sound and the restoration is placed under proper isolation. Where too little tooth remains, an onlay or crown is the more reliable option.

Will the tooth be sensitive afterwards?

Some sensitivity after a deep restoration is common and usually settles. What to expect, and when to get in touch, is explained at the appointment.

What happens if there is more decay than expected?

The plan is discussed again before going further, so you know what has been found and what the options are rather than being told afterwards.

Dental treatment is planned for the individual. Whether any treatment described here is appropriate for you can only be established at a clinical assessment, and the options discussed with you may differ from those set out on this page. Photographs show the outcome for one patient and are not a prediction of anyone else’s result.