What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are one of the most common restorative dental procedures performed to repair teeth damaged by decay (cavities). When bacteria in your mouth produce acids that erode tooth enamel, they create small holes or cavities. If left untreated, these cavities grow larger, potentially reaching the inner pulp of the tooth and causing pain, infection, or even tooth loss.
A filling restores the tooth's integrity by removing the decayed portion and filling the space with a durable material. This process not only stops the decay from progressing but also restores the tooth's shape, function, and strength so you can chew comfortably and maintain your smile.
💡 Did You Know?
Modern tooth-colored composite fillings have completely transformed restorative dentistry. Unlike old silver amalgam fillings, today's composite resin materials bond directly to your tooth structure, require less removal of healthy tooth material, and are virtually invisible when you smile or talk.
Types of Dental Fillings
We offer different filling materials based on the location of the cavity, the extent of decay, your aesthetic preferences, and your budget. Here are the most common types:
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Composite Resin (Tooth-Colored)
The most popular choice for visible teeth. Made from a mixture of plastic and glass particles, composite fillings are custom-shaded to match your natural tooth color perfectly.
✓ Pros: Natural appearance, bonds to tooth, preserves tooth structure
✗ Cons: May be slightly less durable than amalgam for large cavities
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Amalgam (Silver)
A durable mixture of metals including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. Amalgam has been used safely for over 150 years and is extremely strong.
✓ Pros: Very durable, cost-effective, withstands chewing forces
✗ Cons: Visible silver color, may expand/contract with temperature
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Gold Fillings
Custom-made in a dental lab from gold alloy. Gold fillings are exceptionally durable and well-tolerated by gum tissues, though rarely used today due to cost and appearance.
✓ Pros: Extremely durable (20+ years), doesn't corrode
✗ Cons: Expensive, requires multiple visits, highly visible
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Porcelain (Ceramic)
Tooth-colored inlays or onlays made in a dental lab. Porcelain is highly aesthetic and stain-resistant, making it ideal for larger restorations.
✓ Pros: Excellent aesthetics, stain-resistant, very durable
✗ Cons: More expensive, requires two visits
Our Recommendation
For most patients, we recommend composite resin fillings for their superior aesthetics, tooth-preserving properties, and excellent durability. We'll discuss all options during your consultation to find the best solution for your specific needs.
The Dental Filling Procedure
Getting a filling is a straightforward, minimally invasive procedure that typically takes 30-60 minutes per tooth. Here's what to expect during your appointment:
1
Numbing & Anesthesia
We apply a topical anesthetic to numb the gum, then administer a local anesthetic injection to ensure you feel no pain during the procedure. You may feel slight pressure, but the area will be completely numb.
2
Decay Removal
Using a dental drill or laser, we carefully remove all decayed tooth material. We'll ensure only the damaged portion is removed, preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
3
Tooth Preparation
The cavity is cleaned, disinfected, and prepared for the filling material. If the decay was near the tooth root, we may place a liner to protect the nerve.
4
Filling Placement
For composite fillings, we apply the tooth-colored resin in layers, using a special light to harden each layer. The filling is carefully shaped to match your natural bite.
5
Shaping & Polishing
We trim away excess material, check your bite, and polish the filling to ensure it feels smooth and natural. The final result should feel just like your natural tooth.
⏱️ How Long Does It Take?
A single filling typically takes 30-60 minutes from start to finish. Multiple fillings can often be completed in the same appointment, though extensive work may be split across multiple visits for your comfort.
When Do You Need a Dental Filling?
Not all cavities cause obvious symptoms, especially in the early stages. That's why regular dental checkups are crucial for catching decay early. However, here are common signs you may need a filling:
- Tooth Sensitivity: Discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages
- Visible Holes or Pits: Dark spots or visible cavities in your teeth
- Toothache or Pain: Persistent or intermittent pain in a specific tooth
- Rough or Sharp Edges: Chipped areas or rough spots you can feel with your tongue
- Food Trapping: Food consistently gets stuck in the same spot between teeth
- Broken Fillings: Old fillings that have cracked, fallen out, or are deteriorating
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dental examination as soon as possible. Early treatment prevents the cavity from growing larger and potentially requiring more extensive procedures like root canals or crowns.
Caring for Your Dental Fillings
Immediately After Your Procedure
- Avoid Eating: Wait until numbness wears off (2-3 hours) to prevent accidentally biting your cheek or tongue
- Sensitivity is Normal: Mild sensitivity to temperature and pressure for a few days is common
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help if needed
- Soft Foods: Stick to softer foods for the first 24 hours
Long-Term Care
- Brush Twice Daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and gentle technique
- Floss Daily: Clean between teeth to prevent new cavities
- Regular Checkups: Visit every 6 months for cleanings and examinations
- Avoid Hard Foods: Don't chew ice or hard candy that could crack fillings
How Long Do Fillings Last?
With proper care, composite fillings typically last 7-10 years, while amalgam fillings can last 10-15 years or longer. Porcelain and gold fillings can last 15-20+ years. Regular dental visits help us monitor your fillings and replace them before they fail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does getting a filling hurt?
No. We use local anesthesia to completely numb the area, so you won't feel pain during the procedure. You may feel slight pressure or vibration, but no discomfort. After the anesthesia wears off, some mild sensitivity is normal for a few days but typically resolves quickly.
Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver fillings?
Modern composite resin fillings are very strong and durable for most cavities. While amalgam may be slightly stronger for very large fillings in back molars that endure heavy chewing forces, composite fillings bond directly to tooth structure, which actually strengthens the tooth. For the vast majority of cases, composites perform excellently.
Can I eat and drink normally after getting a filling?
With composite fillings, yes—they harden immediately under the curing light. However, we recommend waiting until the numbness wears off (2-3 hours) to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Stick to softer foods for the first day if you experience any sensitivity.
Will my filling be noticeable?
Tooth-colored composite fillings are virtually invisible. We carefully select a shade that matches your natural tooth color, and the filling blends seamlessly with the surrounding tooth structure. Most people won't be able to tell you have a filling at all.
What happens if I don't get a cavity filled?
Cavities don't heal on their own—they only get worse. Untreated decay will continue to spread deeper into the tooth, eventually reaching the pulp and causing severe pain, infection, and abscess. At that point, you'll need a root canal or extraction instead of a simple filling. Early treatment is always easier, less expensive, and more comfortable.
How much do dental fillings cost?
The cost varies based on the size of the filling, location in your mouth, and material used. Composite fillings typically range from $150-$450 per tooth, while amalgam fillings are usually slightly less expensive. Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of filling costs. We'll provide a detailed cost estimate before beginning treatment.
Can old fillings be replaced?
Yes. Old, worn, cracked, or leaking fillings should be replaced to prevent decay from forming underneath. Many patients also choose to replace old silver amalgam fillings with tooth-colored composite fillings for improved aesthetics. We'll evaluate your existing fillings during regular checkups.
Don't Wait—Treat Cavities Early
Early treatment saves time, money, and discomfort. If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity or suspect you have a cavity, schedule an appointment today. Our gentle, experienced team will restore your tooth quickly and comfortably.
