It’s pretty common to end up needing a tooth filling because of the foods we eat. Essentially, a filling is like a dental repair job, filling up cavities right away to prevent food bits and bacteria from causing trouble.
These fillings step in to replace damaged parts of a tooth, keeping it strong and stopping further decay. They’re also used to repair worn chewing surfaces and saving teeth from future problems.
When teeth are chipped, cracked, or affected by decay, fillings are necessary. While large cavities are noticeable and often painful, smaller ones in hard-to-spot areas require attention too.
Routine dental check-ups are crucial for detecting these issues early. Through tools like X-rays and dental probes, dentists can identify areas needing restoration that may not be visible in the mirror.
Although cavities are the most common reason for fillings, they are not the only reason your dentist may recommend reconstructive work. If you grind your teeth, bite your nails or use your teeth as tools, you may erode the chewing surfaces enough to require a filling to restore a healthy bite.
Signs that you may need a tooth filling include:
During a tooth filling procedure, you can expect the following steps:
1. Preparation: The dentist will first numb the area around the tooth to be filled using a local anaesthetic. This ensures you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
2. Removal of Decay: The dentist will use a drill or laser to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This creates a clean space for the filling material.
3. Filling Placement: Once the decay is removed, the dentist will fill the cavity with a suitable filling material. This could be composite resin, amalgam, gold, or ceramic, depending on your preference and the location of the tooth.
4. Shaping and Polishing: After the filling material is placed, the dentist will shape and polish it to ensure a smooth and natural-looking surface. This also helps ensure your bite feels normal.
5. Final Check: The dentist will check your bite to make sure it feels comfortable and adjust the filling if necessary.
Overall, the tooth filling procedure is relatively quick and straightforward, typically taking less than an hour to complete. Afterward, you may experience some numbness or sensitivity, but this should subside within a few hours.
While we’ve answered a few frequently asked questions below, every smile is unique. If you’d like tailored advice or have something specific in mind, we invite you to book a complimentary consultation. We’ll take the time to understand your needs and guide you with care and expertise.
Phoebe is also dedicated to enhancing children’s oral health and wellbeing, having worked in public dental programs for school-aged children.
Dr Atousa Moradi continues to stay committed and up to date within dentistry, to always provide excellent dental care and comfort to patients of all ages.
Chandra is one of our highly skilled and experienced dentist who provides the highest quality of dental care to patients of all age.
Mariam’s main focus and interest is the prevention and management of gum disease and maintaining overall good oral health.
Dr Thomas Brookes is passionate about all areas of dentistry, particularly preventative and restorative.
Joanna enjoys taking the time to know and understand her patients concerns, ideas and requests as she creates a treatment plan.
