Introduction
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems—but fortunately, they’re also among the easiest to treat. Dental fillings are a cornerstone of restorative dentistry, helping repair teeth damaged by decay and preventing further oral health issues.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings restore the shape and function of a tooth after decay has been removed. The dentist carefully removes the decayed portion, cleans the tooth, and fills it with a durable material that prevents bacteria from re-entering.
Types of Dental Fillings
1. Composite Resin Fillings
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Tooth-colored and blends naturally with teeth.
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Ideal for front teeth.
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Lasts about 5–7 years.
2. Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
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Strong and durable.
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More noticeable in appearance.
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Commonly used for back teeth.
3. Ceramic Fillings
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Made of porcelain and highly resistant to stains.
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Long-lasting—can last over 15 years.
4. Gold Fillings
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Extremely durable and strong.
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More expensive than other options.
Signs You May Need a Filling
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Sensitivity to hot or cold foods/drinks.
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Visible holes or dark spots on teeth.
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Pain while chewing.
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Food frequently getting stuck between teeth.
The Dental Filling Procedure
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Examination & X-rays – The dentist identifies the cavity.
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Local Anesthesia – The tooth and surrounding area are numbed.
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Decay Removal – The decayed portion of the tooth is removed.
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Tooth Preparation – The cleaned tooth is shaped for filling.
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Placement of Filling Material – The chosen filling is applied.
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Shaping & Polishing – The filling is adjusted for a natural bite.
⏱ Most procedures take less than an hour per tooth.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
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Stops further tooth decay.
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Restores natural chewing function.
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Maintains the tooth’s structure and strength.
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Improves smile aesthetics (especially with tooth-colored fillings).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do fillings hurt?
A: No. Dentists use local anesthesia to keep the procedure pain-free.
Q: How long do fillings last?
A: Composite: 5–7 years, Amalgam: 10–15 years, Ceramic: 15+ years.
Q: Can cavities heal without fillings?
A: No. Once decay penetrates the enamel, a filling is required.
Q: Are tooth-colored fillings better than silver?
A: Tooth-colored fillings are more natural-looking, while silver may last longer in back teeth where durability is key.
Conclusion
Dental fillings are simple yet powerful in preventing bigger dental problems. At Ora Smiles, we use advanced restorative dentistry techniques to ensure long-lasting, comfortable results for every patient.
👉 Schedule your restorative dentistry appointment today at Ora Smiles!
