Dental Fillings

Fillings are the most common treatment in restorative dentistry, and when a cavity is caught early at a regular exam, a filling is usually all it takes.

Signs you may need a filling

Small cavities often cause no symptoms, which is why checkups matter. As decay grows you may notice:

• Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks
• A sharp twinge when you bite down
• A visible hole, dark spot or rough edge on a tooth
• Food catching in the same spot again and again
• A filling that feels loose, cracked or has fallen out

Types of filling materials

Traditional dental restoratives, or fillings, are most often made of silver amalgam. The strength and durability of this material makes it useful where restored teeth must withstand the extreme forces of chewing, often in the back of the mouth.

Newer fillings include ceramic and plastic compounds that mimic the appearance of natural teeth. These compounds, called composite resins, are usually used on the front teeth where a natural appearance is important, but they can also be used on back teeth depending on the location and extent of the decay. Tooth-colored fillings are also covered on our bonding page.

Glass ionomer fillings release a small amount of fluoride and are often used near the gum line or for baby teeth.

Direct and indirect fillings

• Direct fillings are placed into a prepared cavity in a single visit. They include silver amalgam, glass ionomers, resin ionomers, and composite (resin) fillings.
• Indirect fillings generally require two or more visits. They include inlays, onlays, and veneers, usually made in a lab from gold or porcelain, and are used when a tooth has too much damage to support a filling but not enough to need a crown.

What to expect during a filling

1. The area is numbed with a local anesthetic, so you feel pressure rather than pain.
2. The decayed part of the tooth is removed and the area is cleaned.
3. The filling material is placed and shaped. Composite is hardened with a special light, one thin layer at a time.
4. The filling is polished and your bite is checked so the tooth meets its neighbors evenly.

After your filling

Your mouth may stay numb for a few hours, so take care not to bite your cheek or tongue. Some sensitivity to hot and cold is common for a week or two. If your bite feels high or uneven, call us and we will adjust it. Call right away if a filling breaks, or if you have severe pain or swelling.

Is amalgam safe?

The American Dental Association considers amalgam a safe, durable filling material. The FDA recommends that certain higher-risk groups, including pregnant women, young children and people with certain health conditions, avoid new amalgam fillings when a suitable alternative exists, and it does not recommend removing amalgam fillings that are in good condition. We are happy to talk through the options for each tooth.

Fillings are a basic service under most dental insurance plans; our financial information page explains payment options. The best way to avoid future fillings is good daily care, fluoride and regular checkups. Request an appointment if a tooth is bothering you.