A filling repairs a tooth that has been damaged by decay, a crack or wear. The earlier a problem is found, the smaller the filling usually is, and the more of your natural tooth is kept.
Signs you may need a filling
- Pain or sensitivity when you eat or drink something sweet, hot or cold
- A toothache, or pain when you bite down
- A visible hole, pit or dark spot on a tooth
- Food that keeps catching in the same place between teeth
- A rough or sharp edge you can feel with your tongue
- A chip or crack in a tooth
You can have a cavity without any symptoms, which is why exams and X-rays matter. Your dentist can find early decay before it hurts.
What happens during a filling
- Your dentist examines the tooth and confirms the problem, often with an X-ray.
- The area is numbed with local anesthetic so you stay comfortable.
- The decayed or damaged part of the tooth is removed.
- The cleaned space is filled with a material such as tooth-colored composite resin, shaped to fit your bite and polished.
Your lips and tongue may feel numb for a few hours afterward. Mild sensitivity for a few days is common. Call the office if your bite feels uneven or the sensitivity does not improve.
Types of filling material
Composite resin is the most common choice today because it matches the color of your tooth and bonds to it. Other materials, such as amalgam or glass ionomer, are used in certain situations. Read our comparison of tooth-colored fillings and amalgam for the details.
What happens if you wait
A small cavity usually grows. Decay can reach the inner part of the tooth, called the pulp, and cause pain or infection. At that stage a filling may no longer be enough, and a root canal or an extraction might be needed. Treating decay early is simpler and keeps more of your tooth.
Preventing new cavities
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between your teeth every day
- Limit sugary and acidic snacks and drinks between meals
- Keep your regular cleanings and exams
Children are especially prone to cavities, so see our article on preventing cavities in children.
Learn more
Our dental fillings page explains what to expect at NoHo Dental Group. If a filling or crown has already come out, read what to do next.
This article is general information and does not replace an exam or personal advice from your dentist.
Have questions about your own teeth? Request an appointment or call (747) 339-7016.
