What Are Dental Fillings and Why Are They Needed?
A dental filling is a common restorative treatment used to fix a tooth that has a cavity. Cavities form when oral bacteria produce acids that erode the hard enamel and dentin layers of your tooth, creating a hole. If the cavity is not cleaned out and filled, it will continue to grow, potentially leading to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. Fillings halt this process by doing three essential things:
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Remove the Decay: First, the dentist clears out all the decayed (infected) tooth material, thoroughly cleaning the cavity to remove bacteria.
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Restore the Tooth’s Structure: Next, the hole in the tooth is filled with a special material that rebuilds the shape and stability of the tooth so you can bite and chew normally.
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Seal the Tooth to Prevent Further Damage: Finally, the filling material seals off the area, preventing bacteria from re-entering and causing new decay under the filling.
By removing decay and sealing the tooth, a filling keeps the tooth intact and functional for years to come. Most cavities don’t hurt at first, which is why regular check-ups are important – we can catch and treat decay with a small filling before it causes pain or requires more complex treatment like a root canal.
Cavities often result from a combination of factors, including inadequate oral hygiene, frequent snacking on sugary or acidic foods, and a lack of fluoride. Our goal is not only to repair cavities with fillings but also to help you understand how to prevent new ones. Regular dental visits and good daily habits greatly reduce your risk of needing fillings in the future.
Types of Filling Materials: What Are Your Options?
Thanks to advances in dental materials, you have several options when it comes to the type of filling used to repair your tooth. Each material has its own advantages, and at Nuvodent we will recommend the best one for you based on the size and location of the cavity, cosmetic considerations, durability, and cost. Here are the most common types of filling materials we offer:
Composite (White) Fillings
What is it? Composite resin is a tooth-colored material made of a plastic matrix mixed with fine glass particles. It’s one of the most popular filling materials today.
Advantages: Composite fillings are highly aesthetic – they can be closely matched to the color of your natural teeth, making the filling virtually invisible. The composite material bonds to the tooth structure, which can strengthen the tooth and often allows us to remove less healthy tooth tissue compared to an amalgam filling. They also harden quickly (using a special curing light) so you can use the tooth soon after the procedure.
Disadvantages: Composite can be slightly less durable than metal for very large fillings in back teeth that withstand heavy chewing forces. They may also be a bit more expensive than amalgam. Over time, composites can pick up stains from things like coffee, tea, or tobacco, though proper polishing and good hygiene minimize this.
Best for: Small to medium cavities, especially in visible areas (front teeth or visible surfaces of back teeth). We primarily use composite fillings at Nuvodent for most situations because of their combination of strength and appearance.
Amalgam (Silver) Fillings:
What is it? Dental amalgam is a traditional filling material that is a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury (the mercury is bound in the alloy and makes the material pliable during placement).
Advantages: Amalgam is very strong and long-lasting. These fillings can endure significant chewing forces and typically last many years, often longer than composite in large restorations. Amalgam is also cost-effective.
Disadvantages: The obvious drawback is the dark silver color, which is visible when you laugh or smile, so it’s not aesthetic for front teeth. Amalgam fillings also require the removal of a bit more healthy tooth structure to hold the material in place (since they don’t bond to the tooth like composite). Additionally, while major health organizations consider dental amalgam safe, some people have concerns about the mercury content.
Best for: Large cavities in back molar teeth where the filling won’t be seen and maximum strength is needed. However, due to improved alternatives, amalgam is used less frequently nowadays – Nuvodent mainly uses composites and other modern materials.
Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC):
What is it? Glass ionomer is a tooth-colored material made from acrylic acids and fine glass powder. It has the unique property of releasing fluoride over time.
Advantages: The slow fluoride release can help strengthen the surrounding tooth and prevent further decay, which is a great benefit for cavity-prone patients. Glass ionomer also forms a chemical bond to the tooth and is relatively gentle on the tooth’s pulp (nerve).
Disadvantages: GIC is not as strong or wear-resistant as composite or amalgam, so it’s usually not used on chewing surfaces of adult molars. It can wear down or chip if subjected to heavy biting forces. Also, the color match to tooth enamel, while good, is usually not as perfect as composite.
Best for: Small fillings in low-stress areas, cavities on the neck of the tooth (near the gumline), root surface cavities, or temporary fillings. It’s also often used in children’s teeth or as a liner under other fillings.
Gold Fillings (Inlays/Onlays)
What is it? Gold fillings are actually custom-made restorations (called inlays or onlays) created in a dental lab from gold alloy. They are then cemented into the cavity. Gold is not used as a direct filling that’s placed in one visit – it requires at least two visits and a lab process.
Advantages: Gold is a very durable material – gold restorations can last 15 years or much longer, often decades. It is extremely strong, biocompatible with gum tissue, and does not corrode. Many dentists consider gold the “gold standard” for long-term performance in large cavities.
Disadvantages: The cost of gold restorations is high, due to both material cost and the lab work involved. Also, gold is obviously metallic and doesn’t match tooth color, though on back teeth some patients don’t mind. Another disadvantage is the need for multiple appointments (one to prepare the tooth and take an impression, and another to cement the fabricated gold piece).
Best for: Large cavities in back teeth for patients who prioritize durability and don’t mind the extra cost or the gold color. Nowadays, porcelain inlays/onlays are often chosen instead of gold for aesthetic reasons, but gold is still an excellent choice for those who want the longest-lasting solution.
Porcelain/Ceramic Fillings (Inlays/Onlays)
What is it? These are another type of lab-made filling, crafted from high-strength dental ceramic (porcelain). They are custom-designed to fit the cavity and are bonded into place, similar to gold inlays/onlays.
Advantages: Porcelain inlays/onlays are tooth-colored and highly aesthetic, blending seamlessly with the natural tooth. They are also quite durable and resistant to staining. Ceramic materials are improving all the time and can closely match natural enamel’s translucency.
Disadvantages: As with gold, they tend to be more expensive than direct fillings and require two visits (one for preparation and impression, another to cement the restoration). Porcelain can also be a bit more brittle than composite or gold; however, when bonded properly to the tooth, it is very strong and can serve for many years.
Best for: Moderate to large cavities, especially in teeth that show when you smile, where aesthetics are important along with strength. They are a great option if you want a long-lasting, invisible filling and are willing to invest a bit more time and cost.
Placing a Dental Filling: The Procedure
Anesthesia
To ensure you feel no pain, the dentist will begin by numbing the area around the affected tooth. A local anesthetic is gently injected, which momentarily stings for a second or two. After that, the tooth and surrounding gums become numb. We also offer comfort options for anxious patients – such as a topical numbing gel before the injection, calming music, or even sedation options upon request – to make the experience as easy as possible.
Decay Removal
Once you’re numb, the dentist uses a dental drill or laser to remove all decayed portions of the tooth. You may hear the sound of the drill and feel slight pressure or vibration, but you should not feel pain. We take care to remove only the damaged areas, preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
Tooth Preparation
After all decay is cleared, the dentist will shape and prepare the cavity space for the filling material. Different filling materials require different prep: for example, composite fillings involve applying a weak acid gel to “etch” (microscopically roughened) the enamel, then adding a bonding agent so the composite will adhere strongly. If the cavity is deep or near the nerve, a protective liner may be placed to shield the nerve before filling.
Filling Placement
The dentist places the filling material into the prepared cavity. For composites, the resin is usually added in small increments and each layer is hardened with a special blue curing light. This technique ensures a strong, well-bonded filling. Amalgam, if used, is packed tightly into the cavity and shaped. With glass ionomer, it’s placed and allowed to chemically set. Layer by layer, the tooth is rebuilt.
Shaping and Polishing
Once the cavity is filled, the dentist will shape the filling to match the natural contours of your tooth, making sure your bite feels right when you close your teeth together. High spots are adjusted so that you don’t hit the filling first when biting. After shaping, the filling is smoothed and polished. Polishing is important for comfort, appearance, and to make the filling surface less likely to attract plaque.
You’ll be asked to gently bite down on carbon paper to mark any areas where the filling might be too thick or tall. The dentist will fine-tune these spots until your bite is even and natural. We ensure that your new filling feels like a part of your tooth and that you can bite and chew comfortably.
The entire process for a single filling typically takes 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the cavity and the material used. After the procedure, your mouth will likely stay numb for a couple of hours, but you can generally eat on the filled tooth as soon as the numbness wears off (we’ll advise you if otherwise).
Bite Check
When you come in for a general dental check-up at Nuvodent, we carry out a thorough evaluation to get a complete picture of your oral health.
Pain and Discomfort: What to Expect
Patients are often relieved to learn that getting a filling is quick and painless with modern techniques. Thanks to effective local anesthesia, you should feel no pain during the drilling and filling process. You might sense some pressure or vibration, but it shouldn’t hurt. If at any point you do feel discomfort, let us know right away, and we will pause and ensure you’re adequately numb before continuing. Your comfort is a top priority.
After the numbness subsides, it’s normal to experience some mild sensitivity or discomfort in the treated tooth for a few days to a week. Common post-filling sensations include:
Temperature Sensitivity
The tooth may be sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks for a short time. This sensitivity usually decreases each day and is typically gone within a week or two. Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help, and avoid extreme temperatures in foods for the first day or so.
Soreness in Nearby Teeth
Sometimes the tooth (or teeth) next to the filled tooth can feel temporarily sensitive as well, a phenomenon known as “referred pain.” This is generally short-lived.
Pressure Sensitivity
You might notice slight soreness or sensitivity when biting down, especially if it was a deep cavity or a large filling. This should also resolve as the tooth settles. If biting down feels sharply painful or very uncomfortable even after a few days, the filling might be a bit high – come see us for a simple adjustment.
These post-treatment sensitivities are usually minor. Over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen) are more than enough if you feel any soreness once the anesthetic wears off, but in many cases, they’re not even needed.
Keep in mind that every person and every tooth is different. If your sensitivity seems to last longer than a week or two, or if it’s getting worse instead of better, please contact us. It could indicate that the filling needs a touch-up (for example, smoothing out a rough edge or correcting your bite) or, in rare cases, that there was more extensive decay very close to the nerve that might need further treatment. We’re here to make sure you’re comfortable and satisfied with your treatment, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns.
Aftercare and Lifespan of Your Filling
Dental fillings are quite durable, but their longevity depends on several factors including the material used, the size of the filling, your oral habits, and how well you care for your teeth. On average, composite (white) fillings last about 5 to 10 years. Amalgam (silver) fillings can last 10 to 15 years or more. High-quality gold or porcelain inlays/onlays might last 15-20 years. Remember, these are averages – some fillings last longer, and some may need replacement sooner if conditions change.
To maximize the lifespan of your fillings and prevent new cavities from forming, follow these aftercare tips:
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Continue to brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Good hygiene prevents plaque buildup around the edges of fillings, which is where decay can sometimes start again.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Don’t skip your routine check-ups and cleanings. During these visits, we inspect your fillings to ensure they remain intact and sealed. We can catch any wear or leakage early and fix or replace a filling before it causes a bigger problem. Professional cleanings also keep your whole mouth healthier, which benefits your fillings too.
Avoid Using Teeth as Tools
Don’t use your teeth to open packages, bottles, or bite non-food objects (pens, fingernails, etc.). Such habits can chip or stress fillings (and teeth in general).
Watch Your Diet
Limit frequent snacking on sugary or sticky foods and drinks. A healthy diet that’s low in sugar helps prevent decay on all your teeth, including those with fillings. Also, minimize very hard foods (like biting on ice or hard candy) that could crack a filling or tooth.
Mouthguard for Grinding
If you clench or grind your teeth at night (bruxism), consider getting a custom nightguard. Grinding can wear down teeth and fillings prematurely. A nightguard will protect your dental work and your natural teeth from excessive force.
Fillings are not permanent; they undergo wear and tear every day from chewing and exposure to foods and saliva. Over time, a filling might start to leak (develop tiny gaps between the filling and tooth), crack, or get worn down. It’s important to replace a filling before it fails completely or allows decay to sneak underneath. Signs that a filling may need replacement include:
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Tooth Pain or Persistent Sensitivity: If a previously filled tooth starts hurting or has ongoing sensitivity to pressure or temperature, it could mean the filling is no longer sealed well and decay might be present underneath.
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Cracks or Fractures in the Filling: If you or your dentist notice a visible crack in the filling material, it should be redone. Cracked fillings can let in bacteria or even split apart.
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Staining or Dark Edges Around the Filling: Discoloration at the margins of a filling can indicate leakage or decay starting at the edge.
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Rough or Sharp Areas: If you feel a rough spot with your tongue that wasn’t there before, part of the filling may have chipped.
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The Filling Feels Loose or Falls Out: Obviously, if a filling comes out, it needs to be replaced right away to prevent infection and sensitivity.
During your check-ups, we will examine your fillings for any of these issues. If a filling does need replacement, the procedure is similar to the original filling process: we’d remove any remaining old filling and any new decay, then place a new filling. Sometimes, if a cavity has grown or a tooth has fractured around an old filling, a crown might be recommended as a more durable solution. We will explain our findings and recommendations so you can decide on the best course of action.
We are here to help.
At Nuvodent, your oral health is our top priority, and we want to work with you to keep your smile healthy and radiant for a lifetime.
Cost of Dental Fillings
The cost of a dental filling depends on a few factors: the size of the cavity, the location of the tooth, and the type of filling material used. For example, a small composite filling in one tooth surface will cost less than a large multi-surface restoration or a custom lab-made inlay. We understand cost is an important consideration and will always provide an estimate before proceeding with treatment. Generally, treating a cavity with a filling is far more affordable than waiting until it becomes a bigger issue that might require a root canal or extraction.
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of filling costs, especially if using standard materials like composite or amalgam, as these are basic restorative treatments. For an accurate quote, it’s best to have an examination – we can then let you know which type of filling is needed and what the cost will be. Rest assured, we focus on both quality and value: we use materials that are safe and durable, and our fees are competitive for the Antwerp area. Investing in a filling now prevents more painful and costly problems later, and keeps your tooth healthy in the long run.