What are the benefits of amalgam fillings?

  • Biting an apple

    Hard-wearing

    Restore strength to your tooth with a long-lasting amalgam filling.

  • Dentist is using UV light

    Fast

    Amalgam fillings are much quicker to place than composite fillings.

  • Lady holding POS terminal

    Cost-effective

    Amalgam fillings are less expensive than white composite and are available on the NHS.

  • Late opening for treatment

    Safe

    Traditional amalgam fillings are a safe option when used to fill all teeth.

Emergency treatment

Why do I need an amalgam filling?

Having a filling is an extremely common procedure (around 8 million cavities are treated with amalgam fillings each year in the UK) and most of us, at some point in our lives, will have a cavity that needs attention. Amalgam fillings are the traditional choice, made from a combination of metals including tin, copper, silver and mercury. When in this alloy form, mercury is perfectly safe.
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Dentist is using UV light

What does the treatment involve?

We numb the affected area using local anaesthetic, and carefully remove the decayed part of your tooth before cleaning it thoroughly.

A base or liner may be placed in the tooth to prevent sensitivity following the procedure.

The amalgam material is mixed and we place it in the tooth cavity, making sure it is tightly compacted and every part is filled effectively.

We shape your amalgam filling to resemble the tooth and, if necessary, smooth it down so it feels comfortable. We may ask you to bite down and run your tongue over the tooth to check it will not cause any issues before we finish.

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Dental practice room

Frequently asked questions

If looked after properly, amalgam fillings can last for years and are particularly suitable for teeth that are subjected to lots of wear and tear, such as those at the back of the mouth. More discreet composite (white) fillings can also be used to treat decayed teeth, but these are more expensive and less durable.

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Opening times

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08:00 – 17:3008:00 – 20:3008:00 – 20:3008:00 – 17:3008:00 – 17:00
Open alternate Saturdays
08:15 - 12:30
 

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Thornhill Dental is able to accept referrals for Orthopantomogram x-rays from other dental practitioners. Referrals can be made on a private basis or NHS basis (if the patient is undergoing NHS treatment at their own practice).