Treat Cavities with Dental Fillings

A tooth filling is a dental restoration treatment used to repair a decayed, cracked or damaged tooth. It involves removing the affected portion of the tooth and filling the hole with a dental material to restore its structure, function and integrity.

A tooth gap filling, or dental bonding, is a cosmetic procedure to close spaces or gaps between teeth. A tooth-colored composite resin is applied to the affected area, which is then shaped and polished to blend in with your surrounding teeth. This is a good option if you wish to improve the appearance of your smile by addressing gaps, irregular spacing or minor cosmetic imperfections.

If you’ve had nitrous oxide, you can return to normal activities once you leave the dental office. However, if you’ve had oral or intravenous sedatives, you’ll need to wait at least one full day before returning to work or school. Some people may need longer. Your dentist can tell you what to expect in your situation.

Typically, a straightforward filling procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes from start to finish.​ Your dental filling procedure could be different depending on the size and location of your cavity, the type of filling material used and the dentist’s technique. If you have multiple cavities or need more complex treatment, the procedure may take longer.

Here’s what you can expect at your dental filling appointment.

First, the dentist numbs the area around the tooth.
Using a local anesthetic, your dentist will numb the affected area to make sure you’re comfortable during the procedure. Then, using a dental drill or other instruments, your dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth, clean out the cavity by shaping it and ensuring it’s free of any debris.​

Next, the filling material is applied to the prepared cavity.
The type of filling material can vary—common options include composite resin, amalgam, gold or porcelain. Composite resin is popular because it can be color-matched to your natural tooth shade. Amalgam, once the filling of choice, is a less commonly used material but still sometimes preferred for back teeth where chewing forces are stronger.

Lastly, your dentist will shape the dental filling and polish it.
Your dentist will make sure your dental filling fits well with your bite and looks natural. Afterward, you may experience some numbness in the area, which typically wears off within a few hours.

After getting a filling, it’s common to experience some degree of sensitivity or discomfort in the treated tooth. This may happen if you have initial sensitivity, a high filling that requires adjustment, irritation of the tooth’s nerve during the procedure, or, in rare cases, underlying issues like infection or an allergic reaction to the filling material.

If you experience persistent or severe pain after a dental filling, you should contact your dentist immediately for a thorough evaluation and treatment. ​