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A dental filling rebuilds a tooth after decay or damage so it can chew, speak, and look like it did before the problem began. By removing the diseased portion and replacing it with a stable restorative material, a filling restores strength and helps prevent further breakdown of the tooth structure.
Tooth decay remains extremely common across all age groups, which is why filling procedures are among the most frequently performed treatments in general dentistry. Modern approaches focus not only on stopping disease but also on preserving as much healthy tooth as possible so restorations remain long-lasting and comfortable.
We tailor each restoration to the specific needs of the tooth and the person sitting in the chair. From the choice of material to the method of placement and finishing, the goal is always to deliver a restoration that blends function, durability, and a natural appearance for a confident smile.
Humanity has attempted to repair worn, broken, and diseased teeth for millennia, but dental materials and techniques have evolved dramatically. For much of the 19th and 20th centuries, metal alloys were the dominant restorative choice because of their durability and predictable performance.
Over the last several decades, advances in biomaterials and adhesive dentistry have expanded the options available. Tooth-colored materials that bond to tooth structure make it possible to restore form while conserving more of the natural tooth and offering improvements in appearance that were not previously available.
Every restoration we place follows an individualized plan: evaluate the decay or defect, discuss material choices, and use minimally invasive techniques when appropriate. The selection of a restoration considers the tooth’s location, the amount of remaining tooth structure, and the patient’s priorities for function and appearance.
Conservative preparation, precise bonding, and careful finishing are the hallmarks of a reliable filling. Attention to detail during placement—such as ensuring a tight seal and correct bite—reduces the risk of future problems and contributes to a comfortable result that lasts.
Today’s restorative toolbox offers several material families, each with strengths and tradeoffs. Selecting the right option depends on the tooth’s role in the mouth, aesthetic goals, and long-term expectations for wear and maintenance.
Below are common restorative materials you may encounter and the clinical reasons a dentist might recommend each one. Understanding the differences can help you participate in the decision-making process for your care.
Composite restorations are made from resin mixed with finely ground glass or ceramic fillers. They are available in many shades and can closely match the surrounding tooth, making them a popular choice for visible areas. Because composites bond to the tooth, they often require less removal of healthy structure than some traditional materials.
Composite fillings are versatile: they repair small to moderate cavities, rebuild worn edges, and can even be used for cosmetic bonding. While they provide an excellent aesthetic solution, they may be more prone to surface wear and staining over long periods of heavy use, so routine checks are recommended.
Amalgam has a long history of reliable performance, particularly in back teeth that endure strong chewing forces. These restorations are robust and resist fracture in high-stress areas, which is why they are still used selectively in contemporary practice.
Glass ionomers bond chemically to the tooth and release fluoride over time, which can be beneficial for teeth at higher risk of recurrent decay. They are often chosen for pediatric restorations, for cavities near the gumline, or as interim restorations when a long-term solution is planned.
Ceramic restorations are fabricated outside the mouth and then bonded into place. Because ceramics resist staining and wear well, they are an excellent choice when a strong, tooth-colored restoration is needed for a larger defect. Indirect restorations like inlays and onlays conserve tooth structure while providing a durable, aesthetic result.
Gold alloys are highly durable and biocompatible, offering excellent longevity for certain clinical situations. While less commonly chosen for cosmetic reasons, metal restorations still have a place when maximum strength and marginal stability are the primary concerns.
When decay is detected, the next step is a careful clinical assessment to determine the extent of damage and the most conservative way to restore the tooth. This assessment may include a visual exam, tactile evaluation, and radiographs when needed to see the full scope of the problem.
The restorative visit typically begins with numbing the area using local anesthesia so the tooth is comfortable throughout the procedure. For patients who prefer additional relaxation, we can discuss available comfort options, including nitrous oxide, to help make the experience less stressful.
After anesthesia, the dentist removes the decayed tissue and shapes the remaining tooth to receive the chosen material. For direct restorations like composite or glass ionomer, the material is placed and shaped in the mouth. For indirect restorations such as ceramic inlays, impressions or digital scans are taken and the final piece is seated at a later visit.
Once the filling is in place, the bite is checked carefully and minor adjustments are made so chewing feels natural. Proper finishing and polishing improve the restoration’s appearance and help limit plaque buildup at the margin, supporting the longevity of the repair.
Recovery from a routine filling is typically quick. You may notice residual numbness for an hour or two; until sensation returns, avoid chewing to prevent accidentally biting the cheek or tongue. Warm beverages and smoking should be postponed while the area is numb.
A restored tooth may feel different at first, and minor bite adjustments are not uncommon. If you notice persistent high spots, sensitivity that worsens, or renewed pain, contact the office so we can evaluate and fine-tune the restoration as needed.
Short-term sensitivity to temperature or pressure is a normal response after gentle tooth preparation. This usually settles over days to a few weeks. Maintaining good oral hygiene—brushing, flossing, and keeping regular professional checkups—helps protect the margin between the filling and the natural tooth.
Protect the numb area: Avoid chewing on the side with the new filling until feeling returns fully.
Report bite issues: If chewing feels uneven, a brief adjustment can restore comfort.
Expect short-term sensitivity: Mild sensitivity is common but usually resolves; prolonged or worsening pain warrants evaluation.
Care for the restoration: Routine home care and periodic exams will help your filling last as long as possible; in some cases, larger restorations may need to be replaced or upgraded to an indirect restoration in the future.
We take pride in delivering careful, evidence-based restorative care that supports long-term oral health. If you have questions about the type of filling that is best for you or what to expect after treatment, please contact us for more information.
If the pleasure of eating a delicious bowl of ice cream or sipping a soothing cup of tea gets overshadowed by dental pain that makes you wince; it's time to contact our office. As skilled providers of care, we'll determine what's causing your discomfort and perform the treatment required to alleviate your symptoms and get you back on the road to oral health.
Cavities develop because of an infectious process that causes progressive damage to tooth structure. Despite starting as a pinpoint defect on the outermost enamel layer of your tooth, untreated dental decay progressively compromises more and more healthy tooth structure as it works its way to the inner layers of your tooth.
Yes, you can still develop tooth decay on other surfaces of the tooth, around the margins of an old filling, or in fewer instances, recurrent decay underneath it. For this reason, it's essential to maintain excellent oral hygiene, a diet low in sugary beverages and sweets, and be sure to visit our office for routine checkups and care. While tooth decay is second only to the common cold in frequency, it's almost entirely preventable.
We value the time and comfort of our patients. If cavities are located on adjacent teeth, or in the same section of your smile, it may be possible to treat more than one tooth during your visit. However, how much is done each visit depends on several factors. We keep our patients well informed and tailor every treatment plan and visit to address their unique needs.
Addressing concerns on the presence of elemental mercury in silver fillings, the American Dental Association (ADA), The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the FDA, and the World Health Organization have all stated that amalgam restorations do not pose a risk to health. However, individuals with allergies or sensitivities to the metals in dental amalgam are advised to pursue other restorative options.
Dental fillings are performed under local anesthesia to help ensure your comfort throughout the entire procedure. The involved tooth remains completely numb for the extent of your visit. Within one or two hours after the procedure is completed, the local anesthetic will gradually wear off, and normal sensations return.
A tooth-colored composite filling is fully hardened and set by the end of your visit. However, we may advise you to wait a couple of hours until the local anesthesia has completely worn off. This advice is to help ensure you don't accidentally bite your lip, cheek, or tongue while still numb.
The lifetime of a dental filling varies depending on the type of material used. While popular dental materials can last a decade or more with proper care, they can degrade over time, wear down, or even break. When this happens, you may experience some tooth sensitivity, a jagged edge, or a loose or dislodged piece of filling material. Whatever the case may be, it's essential to get the filling replaced before the tooth sustains further damage or other consequences arise. Beyond taking good care of your smile to help ensure the longevity of your fillings, our office regularly checks the status of your existing fillings as part of a routine checkup exam.
Dental fillings are an essential investment that serves to preserve and protect the health of your smile. With that said, how much a filling costs depends on the number of surfaces of the tooth involved and the filling material that is used. Amalgam restorations are the most economical. While tooth-colored composite fillings have a slightly higher cost, they offer the added benefits of being metal-free and much more aesthetically pleasing. Ceramic fillings, inlays, and onlays are more expensive than the preceding options but provide outstanding, long-lasting, and natural-looking results.
Dental insurances typically cover the cost of dental fillings. While we work with you to maximize your insurance benefits, there may still be an out-of-pocket expense. At the office of Mountainview Dental, we strive to help you begin care without any additional financial stress or delay.
A dental filling replaces decayed or damaged tooth structure to restore normal form and function. By removing infected tissue and sealing the space with a restorative material, a filling stops further breakdown and helps preserve the strength of the remaining tooth. Fillings also restore the tooth’s ability to chew, speak and maintain a natural appearance.
Early intervention with a filling can prevent the need for more extensive treatment later, such as a crown or root canal. Modern techniques emphasize conserving healthy tooth structure while creating a tight seal at the restoration margin. Properly placed fillings support long-term oral health when combined with good home care and regular checkups.
Several material families are commonly used, including composite resin, glass ionomer, dental amalgam and indirect ceramics or metals. Composite resins are tooth colored and bond to the tooth, glass ionomers release fluoride and are useful in certain situations, amalgam offers proven durability for high-stress areas, and ceramic or metal inlays/onlays are fabricated outside the mouth for larger defects. Each material has tradeoffs in aesthetics, strength, wear resistance and the amount of tooth structure required for placement.
Material choice depends on clinical needs such as the size and location of the cavity, aesthetic priorities and how much natural tooth remains. Advances in adhesive dentistry have expanded the use of tooth-colored options while preserving structure. Your dentist will explain the expected lifespan and maintenance considerations for the material recommended in your case.
The decision is based on a clinical assessment that considers the tooth’s position, the extent of decay or damage, bite forces and your cosmetic preferences. Small to moderate cavities in visible areas often respond well to composite resin, while very large defects may warrant an indirect restoration like a ceramic inlay or onlay for added strength. Other factors such as proximity to the gumline, risk of recurrent decay and the need for fluoride release can influence the choice of glass ionomer versus resin-based options.
Your dentist will discuss the benefits and limitations of each option and recommend the most conservative treatment that meets functional and aesthetic needs. When appropriate, preparation techniques that preserve tooth structure and ensure a strong bond are prioritized. The office of Mountainview Dental follows evidence-based protocols to match materials and techniques to each patient’s individual situation.
A filling appointment begins with a careful exam that may include visual assessment, tactile probing and radiographs when needed to determine the full extent of decay. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area so the procedure is comfortable, and additional relaxation options can be discussed for anxious patients. The dentist removes decayed tissue, shapes the cavity for a durable restoration and then places the chosen material according to established techniques.
Direct materials like composite are placed and cured in layers, shaped to restore proper form and checked for correct bite alignment. Indirect restorations require impressions or digital scans and a subsequent appointment to seat the finished piece. At the end of the visit the restoration is polished and bite adjustments are verified so chewing feels natural.
Recovery from a routine filling is usually rapid, and basic oral hygiene supports long-term success. Avoid chewing on the treated side until local anesthesia wears off, brush gently, floss daily and return to normal eating once sensation returns. Maintaining routine dental visits allows the dentist to monitor the restoration and detect any early changes at the margins.
If you experience persistent high spots, increased sensitivity or sharp pain when biting, contact your dental office so the restoration can be evaluated and adjusted as needed. Avoiding very hard foods and habits such as using teeth to open packages will help prevent premature wear or fracture. Regular professional cleanings and examinations reduce the risk of new decay around existing fillings.
The lifespan of a filling depends on material, the size and location of the restoration, and individual factors such as chewing habits and oral hygiene. Small composite fillings may last many years with proper care, while larger restorations and those in high-stress back teeth face greater wear and may eventually require replacement or an upgrade to an indirect restoration. Regular dental exams and radiographs help detect breakdown, recurrent decay or marginal gaps before they cause more extensive damage.
Signs that a filling may need attention include new sensitivity, visible cracks or chips, roughness along the restoration margin, and recurrent decay detected on evaluation. When replacement is indicated, the dentist will recommend the most conservative and durable option appropriate for the tooth. Prompt attention to any changes preserves tooth structure and reduces the likelihood of more invasive treatment.
Some short-term sensitivity to temperature or pressure is common after a filling and usually resolves over days to a few weeks as the tooth adjusts. Sensitivity can arise from the restorative procedure itself, temporary inflammation of the nerve, or a high bite that creates stress on the tooth. Home care measures such as using a desensitizing toothpaste and avoiding very hot or cold foods can help while the tooth recovers.
If sensitivity persists, worsens or is accompanied by sharp pain, contact your dentist for evaluation because prolonged symptoms can indicate a high occlusion, marginal leakage or deeper involvement of the tooth pulp. Simple in-office adjustments, additional protective measures or, in rare cases, further treatment may be necessary to resolve the issue. Early assessment minimizes discomfort and protects long-term tooth health.
Modern tooth-colored composite materials have improved significantly and can provide excellent strength and aesthetics for many posterior restorations. When bonded properly and used within their indicated limits, composites can perform well under normal chewing forces, especially for small to moderate cavities. For very large defects or where maximum strength is required, indirect options such as ceramic inlays/onlays or metal restorations may offer superior long-term durability.
The choice is clinical and balances conservation of tooth structure, functional demands and aesthetic goals. Your dentist will evaluate the specific situation and recommend a material that provides the best combination of strength and preservation for that tooth. Regular follow-up and avoiding excessive force on the restoration help extend its service life.
A direct filling is placed and shaped in the mouth during a single appointment and is typical for small to moderate cavities; composite and glass ionomer are common direct materials. Indirect restorations such as ceramic or gold inlays and onlays are fabricated outside the mouth from impressions or digital scans and are then bonded or cemented to the prepared tooth during a subsequent visit. Indirect restorations are often chosen for larger defects because they can provide superior strength, fit and wear resistance while conserving tooth structure.
Indirect restorations may require more precise tooth preparation, laboratory work or CAD/CAM milling, but they can offer improved longevity for substantial damage. The decision between direct and indirect approaches depends on the size of the defect, functional requirements and the tooth’s remaining structure. Your dentist will explain the expected benefits and clinical rationale for the recommended approach.
Contact the dental office if you experience persistent or worsening pain, prolonged numbness, a noticeable high bite that does not resolve, or visible damage such as a crack in the restoration. These signs can indicate the need for a simple adjustment, additional protective care or further evaluation to rule out underlying issues. Prompt communication allows the dentist to address concerns early and avoid complications.
If you are in the Georgetown, Ontario area and have questions about your restoration or need follow-up care, call the office to schedule an assessment. Timely review after treatment helps ensure comfort and proper function and allows the dentist to monitor the restoration during routine checkups. Mountainview Dental is available to answer clinical questions and provide appropriate follow-up when necessary.
