A dental filling

Is a treatment used to restore a tooth damaged by decay, cracks, or wear. Your dentist removes the decayed portion, cleans the area, and fills the space with a material that restores the tooth’s shape, strength, and function while preventing further decay.

When you might need one?

– Tooth sensitivity to cold, sweets, or biting pressure

– A visible hole, chip, or rough spot

– Food trapping or floss shredding between teeth

– Dark spots or a broken filling

Common filling materials

– Composite resin (tooth-colored): Blends in, bonds to tooth, conservative. May stain over time; lifespan typically 5–10 years.

– Amalgam (silver): Strong, cost-effective, long-lasting. Silver color; less used for front teeth; lifespan 10–15 years+.

– Glass ionomer: Releases fluoride, helpful near the gumline or for kids. Less durable.

– Gold: Very durable and gentle to opposing teeth; higher cost; not tooth-colored.

– Porcelain/ceramic: Highly aesthetic and durable; may require more tooth preparation; higher cost.

– For larger cavities, inlays/onlays or a crown might be recommended instead of a basic filling.

What the procedure is like?

– Exam and X-rays to confirm decay size and location

– Local anesthetic to numb the area

– Removal of decay and cleaning

– Placement of the filling material (often in layers), shaping, and light-curing if composite

– Bite check and polish

Typical time: about 30–60 minutes for one tooth.

Aftercare and what to expect

– Numbness can last a few hours—avoid chewing until it wears off to prevent biting your cheek or tongue.

– Mild sensitivity to cold/pressure is common and usually improves within 1–2 weeks.

– If your bite feels “high,” call for a quick adjustment.

– Composites harden immediately; you can eat once numbness is gone. Amalgam hardens over 24 hours—avoid very hard/sticky foods that day.

– Use desensitizing toothpaste if needed; OTC pain relievers can help the first day.

Longevity and maintenance

– Lifespan depends on material, size, location, bite forces, and hygiene.

– Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit frequent snacking/sugary drinks, and keep regular checkups.

– Consider a night guard if you grind your teeth.

Risks and when to call

– Persistent pain beyond 1–2 weeks, lingering cold sensitivity, throbbing pain, a cracked or lost filling, food trapping, or a sharp edge

– Very deep decay may occasionally need additional treatment (like a root canal or crown)

Prevention tips

– Fluoride toothpaste and professional fluoride as advised

– Dental sealants for deep grooves

– Manage dry mouth, sip water, and limit sugary/acidic snacks and drinks

For personalized advice, costs, and the best material for your tooth, please call Caring Dental at 703-237-7777. We’re happy to answer questions and schedule your visit.