Dental Fillings: Types, What to Expect and When You May Need One

If your dentist has discovered a cavity, they'll likely recommend a filling. It's one of the most routinely performed dental procedures, but we understand that at least a little drooling may sometimes occur at the thought of it. Rest assured, this is plain-language advice on what you should expect from your filling.

What a Filling Does

A filling fills in the area where decay or another damage has been removed from your tooth. Your dentist will take away the damaged portion, disinfect the area, and fill it with a material that will give the tooth its original shape and enable it to function correctly while chewing.
Sometimes, fillings are placed to fix a small chip or crack or perhaps a tooth that has gradually become worn over a period of time. The purpose of this is to preserve the tooth that is left and to prevent the crack or chip from spreading.

When Would You Want One

Your dentist might recommend a filling if:

• You have a cavity that has penetrated through the outer shell of the tooth

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  A tooth is chipped, cracked or worn

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  A previous filling has fractured or fallen out.

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  Decomposing around the border of a current filling

In some cases, other symptoms can include sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods, pain when you bite down or a rough edge or hole in your tooth you can feel with your tongue. If you notice any of these, you should make a dentist appointment instead of delaying.
Not all early decay requires a filling. Very early lesions may be able to be observed and controlled with a fluoride application and improving your home care. Your dentist will advise you on what is best for your tooth.

Types of Dental Fillings

There are many choices, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. The best choice will depend on the location of the tooth, the extent of the damage, your bite and your budget.

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  Tooth coloured fillings (composite resin). These are made of a resin that is available in a range of shades to match the colour of your natural tooth. They are commonly used on front teeth, but can also be used on back teeth. The resin can wear or stain over time and may not be suitable for very large cavities.

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  Glass ionomer fillings. These have a lower level of fluoride and naturally stick to the tooth. They're used in small, cavity fillings near the gum, on the baby teeth and areas of the tooth where they won't be under too much pressure.

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  Amalgam fillings These silver coloured fillings have been around for a long time and are very durable. They're more visible and the use of them has decreased in many practices. Your dentist isn't likely to replace amalgam fillings unless they have become problematic. Check with your dentist if you have concerns about any amalgam fillings.

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  Inlays and onlays made from ceramic or porcelain. These are created either by a lab or by milling technology and work for larger areas of damage where a regular filling might not be sufficient.

Your dentist will be able to tell you what substances they have available and why they might choose one over another.

What the Appointment Consists Of

While every case is unique, a filling appointment typically proceeds in this manner:

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  Inspection. The tooth is checked by your dentist to determine its condition and an X-ray might also be carried out to determine the depth of the decay.

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  Local anaesthetic. Numb the area so you don't feel any pain while you're being treated. You may be aware of some pressure or vibration.

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  Extracting the decay. The dentist drills away the decayed portion of the tooth and cleans out the infection.

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  The filling is put in. The material is packed in layers. If you have a composite filling, a special light may be used to harden each layer.

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  Shaping and checking your bite. Your dentist will shape the filling and make sure your teeth meet comfortably.

So, even your most basic filling can take anywhere from half an hour to one hour.

What to Expect Afterwards

Your mouth may be numb for a few hours so please don't eat until the numbness wears off to avoid biting your tongue or cheeks. You may be sensitive to heat, cold or pressure for a few days or weeks following your treatment. This typically settles down but let us know if it doesn't, or if your bite feels high or uneven.

Caring For Your Fillings

Decalcification around the edges of the filling can still occur, and the rest of the tooth can still be affected. The same things that keep your natural teeth in good shape can help here:

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  Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

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  Clean between your teeth every day

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  Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks

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  Do not chew hard objects such as ice, pen lids, etc

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  Maintain visits for regular check-ups to allow your dentist to monitor your fillings.

Depending on which filling you have, the filling size, your habits and bite will influence how long a filling may last. Nobody can guarantee a timetable, as all fillings can require repair or replacement at a later date.

What If the Damage Is Bigger?

If a tooth has been decayed or damaged severely, a filling may not be strong enough to hold it together. You may then need to have an inlay, onlay or crown. Decay that has exposed the nerve (pulp) in the centre of the tooth may require root canal treatment. The sooner a problem is detected, the more it can be treated.

Consideration of Cost

Charges will differ from practice to practice, and can also depend on the material, as well as the size, number and location of the filling, and how many teeth require treatment. Request a written quote before treatment begins. Some private health extras can contribute to treatment costs but you should check with your health fund.

Possible Risks

As with any dental treatment, there are risks to getting a filling. These can include sensitivity to hot and cold, a filling that chips or cracks or comes loose, decay under a filling and in some cases further treatment such as a crown or root canal. An allergy to filling material is extremely rare but possible. Your dentist will discuss the potential risks before treatment.

Discuss with The Team

Need to have your teeth checked? A Taylors Lakes dentist can take a look at your pearly whites and walk you through your options. Give the team a call to set up an appointment.

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