Cavities are a common dental concern that can lead to additional decay, infection and pain without proper treatment. Fillings are often the first treatment to close a cavity and prevent it from worsening.
If your dentist has recommended this procedure, learn what to expect.
What Are Dental Fillings?
To treat a cavity or repair a cracked, chipped or broken tooth, dentists fill in the damaged area with a material like composite resin, silver amalgam or porcelain. This helps preserve the tooth’s structure and stops further decay.
Fillings are generally recommended when damage has affected the tooth’s enamel but not yet progressed to the pulp and root below. Based on material and care, a filling can last from 10 to 20 years.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
In addition to keeping your tooth intact and minimizing pain, this restorative dental procedure helps:
- Strengthen the remaining tooth
- Reduce further tooth decay
- Restore bite and chewing function
- Improve the appearance of your teeth
- Lower risks for tooth loss
- Preserve damaged or eroded teeth
Dental fillings are less invasive than a root canal and crown, do not require sedation and require no downtime.
Materials Used for Dental Fillings
Your dentist may select one of the following types of materials for a filling:
- Composite Resin: Made from powdered glass and plastic resin, these fillings are added to the top of the tooth and mimic it’s color for a barely noticeable appearance.
- Silver Amalgam: This widely used material combines a silver alloy with mercury, offering a long lifespan.
- Cement: Made of silica glass powder and natural acids, this tooth-colored material has traditionally held crowns in place and may be used to seal small cavities or cracks.
- Porcelain: This durable, tooth-colored material often combines quartz and clay.
- Gold: Combined with copper or silver, gold creates a durable, long-lasting filling.
What to Expect
Standard dental fillings require a single appointment and likely a follow-up visit. During the procedure, your dentist will:
- Start by numbing the area with a local anesthetic.
- Remove any decayed or damaged tissue from the tooth.
- Fully clean bacteria and remaining debris from the cavity.
- Apply a dental liner to reduce sensitivity if decay has progressed close to the root.
- Apply the filling material to the tooth in layers to close the damaged area. If composite resin is used, a curing light helps harden the material.
- Polish and smooth the filling material for a more natural feel.
- Check your bite strength and evenness.
Caring for Your Dental Fillings
Fillings do not change how you care for your teeth. Continue to brush twice a day, floss at least once and rinse with antibacterial mouthwash.
Watch out for the following factors that can indicate damage to the filling or new decay, which require your dentist’s immediate attention:
- Heightened sensitivity
- Cracks or chips in the filling
- Sharp edges
- A loose fit
Experiencing issues with a dental filling? We see emergencies same-day!