A filling repairs a cavity or small area of damage before it grows into something bigger. At Gartside Street Dental Lounge in Spinningfields, we use tooth-coloured composite resin as standard — from £195 — so the repair blends invisibly into your tooth instead of announcing itself in silver.
Why Tooth-Coloured Composite?
Modern composite does more than look natural. It bonds directly to your tooth, which means we can be more conservative — removing only the decayed portion rather than cutting the retention shapes old amalgam fillings required. The bond can actually reinforce the remaining tooth structure, and the shade is matched to your enamel so the repair disappears. The same material is used in our composite bonding work, where it rebuilds chipped and worn front teeth.
How Do You Know You Need a Filling?
Sensitivity to sweet, hot or cold, a dark spot, food catching between teeth or a tooth that twinges when you bite are all common signs. But many cavities are silent until they reach the nerve — at which point a simple filling can become root canal treatment or a crown. That is the real argument for routine check-ups: catching decay while the fix is still small, quick and inexpensive.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Most fillings are completed in a single visit of 30 to 60 minutes. We numb the area with local anaesthetic, gently remove the decay, then layer, shape and light-cure the composite before polishing it to match your tooth's natural contours. The anaesthetic wears off within a few hours and you can eat normally as soon as it does.
Preventing the Next One
Fillings fix damage; prevention stops it. Twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth, and regular hygiene appointments dramatically cut your risk of new cavities. At your check-ups we also keep an eye on existing fillings — composite typically lasts five to ten years, and replacing a worn filling early is far better than waiting for it to fail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of fillings do you offer?
We primarily use tooth-coloured composite resin fillings, which blend naturally with your teeth. These are a popular alternative to traditional silver amalgam fillings and provide a strong, durable repair.
How long do composite fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last 5 to 10 years with proper care, though many last longer. Regular dental check-ups allow us to monitor your fillings and replace them if needed.
Does getting a filling hurt?
We use local anaesthetic to numb the area before placing a filling, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. You may experience some mild sensitivity for a short time afterwards.
How do I know if I need a filling?
Common signs include tooth sensitivity, visible holes or dark spots on a tooth, and pain when biting down. However, some cavities have no symptoms, which is why regular check-ups are important for early detection.
Can I eat straight after having a filling?
With composite fillings, you can usually eat as soon as the numbness wears off. We recommend avoiding very hot or cold foods for the first 24 hours if you experience any sensitivity.
Are tooth-coloured fillings as strong as metal fillings?
Modern composite fillings are very durable and bond directly to the tooth, which can actually help strengthen the remaining tooth structure. They are suitable for most cavities in both front and back teeth.
Why Choose Gartside Street Dental for Your Fillings?
A filling is routine — which is exactly why the difference shows in the details: careful shade matching, properly shaped contact points so floss glides rather than shreds, and a polish that keeps the surface stain-resistant. We price openly (see our Manchester fee guide) and our members save 10% on every treatment.
