A dental filling is a common restorative treatment used to repair teeth damaged by decay, often called a cavity. This procedure seals the compromised area, halting the progression of decay caused by bacteria and restoring the tooth’s shape and function. If decay is not addressed, the hole deepens, potentially leading to pain, infection, or tooth loss. The filling process preserves the tooth and prevents the need for more extensive dental work.
The Step-by-Step Procedure
The procedure begins with applying a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth. A topical numbing gel is often applied before the injectable anesthetic is administered, which helps minimize discomfort during the injection. This anesthesia temporarily blocks nerve signals, allowing the dentist to work without causing pain.
Once the area is fully numb, the dentist uses specialized instruments, typically a dental handpiece (drill) or sometimes a laser, to remove the decayed or damaged tooth material. The goal is to eliminate all traces of the bacterial infection and the softened tooth structure it created. The remaining space, or cavity, is then meticulously cleaned and shaped to prepare it for the filling material.
For composite (tooth-colored) fillings, the preparation involves etching, where a mild acid gel is used to roughen the microscopic surface. This etching creates tiny pores, which allows the bonding agent to adhere securely to the tooth structure. The dentist applies the filling material in layers, sculpting it to mimic the natural contours of the tooth. A special curing light hardens each layer of the composite material. Finally, the dentist checks the bite and polishes the filling to ensure seamless integration.
Choosing the Right Material
The choice of filling material depends on the location of the tooth, aesthetic concerns, and durability requirements. The two most common options are amalgam and composite resin. Amalgam, often called a silver filling, is a strong, durable mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury.
Amalgam fillings are preferred for back teeth due to their longevity, often lasting 10 to 15 years. However, this metallic material stands out visually and can expand and contract slightly with temperature changes. Composite resin fillings are made from a blend of acrylic resin and powdered glass particles, allowing them to match the natural tooth shade.
Composite fillings are highly favored for visible teeth because they blend in discreetly. Unlike amalgam, composite material bonds chemically to the tooth, supporting the remaining structure and requiring less removal of healthy material during preparation. While composite fillings are less durable than amalgam in high-stress areas, they typically last five to ten years. Other options include gold and porcelain, generally used for indirect fillings like inlays or onlays when a larger restoration is needed.
Immediate Aftercare and Long-Term Expectations
Patients will experience numbness for a few hours until the local anesthetic wears off. Avoid chewing on the treated side during this time to prevent accidentally biting the cheek, lip, or tongue. If a composite filling was placed, eating can usually resume immediately; if an amalgam filling was used, wait at least 24 hours before chewing solid foods to allow the material to fully set.
A common temporary side effect is increased tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or air exposure, resulting from nerve irritation during the procedure. This sensitivity is usually mild and resolves within a few days to a couple of weeks as the tooth settles. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage initial soreness.
Patients should seek follow-up care if they experience severe, constant pain, or if pain persists beyond two weeks. A feeling that the filling is “too high,” causing pain when biting down, is easily corrected by the dentist reshaping the material. Fillings are not permanent and generally need replacement after around a decade, depending on the material and oral hygiene. Maintaining diligent brushing, flossing, and regular checkups is necessary to maximize the filling’s lifespan and prevent new decay.