A filling repairs a tooth that has decay or damage. The dentist removes the affected part of the tooth and fills the space so the tooth can work normally again.
At a glance
- What it does
- Repairs a tooth damaged by decay, a chip or a small crack
- Numbing
- Local anaesthetic, so the tooth is numb
- Time
- Often a single visit
- Materials
- Tooth-coloured composite or other materials, chosen by your dentist
- Cost
- Depends on the size of the filling and the material. Your dentist tells you before starting.
When you may need a filling
- A cavity caused by tooth decay
- A chipped or broken tooth
- A tooth worn down by grinding or acid
- An old filling that has cracked or is leaking
Small cavities do not always hurt, which is why regular check-ups matter. Toothache, sensitivity to sweet, hot or cold, or a rough or sharp spot on a tooth are reasons to have it looked at.
What happens during a filling
- Examination. The dentist checks the tooth and may take an X-ray to see how deep the decay goes.
- Numbing. A local anaesthetic numbs the tooth and the gum around it.
- Removing the decay. The decayed or damaged part of the tooth is taken out and the space cleaned.
- Filling. For a tooth-coloured filling, the material is placed in layers and hardened with a special light. The dentist then shapes it.
- Checking the bite. You bite down so the dentist can check that the filling feels right, and polishes it.
Filling materials
Composite fillings are tooth-coloured and are made from a resin mixed with fine glass or ceramic particles. Other materials are also used. Your dentist will explain which one suits the tooth, where it is in the mouth, and how big the filling needs to be.
After the filling
- The numbness lasts a few hours. Do not eat until it has worn off, so you do not bite your cheek or tongue.
- The tooth may be sensitive to hot, cold or biting pressure for a while. This usually settles within a few weeks. Tell your dentist if it does not.
- If the filling feels high when you bite, tell your dentist. It is a quick adjustment.
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth, because new decay can start at the edge of a filling.
When a filling is not enough
If a tooth is badly broken or the decay has reached the nerve, a filling may not be enough. The dentist may then advise a crown or a root canal treatment. Fillings can also wear, chip or leak over time and may need replacing.
When to get urgent help
Go to the nearest hospital straight away (or call 112) if you have swelling of the face or neck, swelling that makes it hard to breathe or swallow, or a fever together with tooth or gum pain. Do not wait for an appointment.
Common questions
Will it hurt?
The tooth is numbed before the decay is removed, so you should not feel pain. Tell the dentist if you do.
How long will a filling last?
It depends on its size, the material, your bite and how well the tooth is cleaned. Your dentist can tell you what to expect.
Are tooth-coloured fillings as strong?
They are used widely for many teeth. Your dentist will tell you whether a tooth-coloured filling suits your tooth or whether another option is better.
Can decay come back?
Yes, at the edge of a filling or elsewhere on the tooth. Good cleaning, fluoride toothpaste, fewer sugary snacks and regular check-ups reduce the risk.
What are sealants?
Sealants are thin coatings placed on the chewing surface of back teeth, usually in children, to keep germs and food out of the grooves. See our children’s dentistry page.
Fillings and restoration at Gangtok Dental Clinic
Dr. Anjali Gupta sees patients at Gangtok Dental Clinic and has more than 6 years of experience in dentistry. She will check the tooth first and tell you if a filling is enough. She will explain what she finds and go through your options and the cost with you, and nothing is started until you are ready to go ahead.
We are open every day from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Call or message us on WhatsApp at +91 82106 99271 to book an examination. Our address is on the contact page.
This page gives general information about the treatment. It is not a diagnosis or medical advice, and what you need depends on an examination by your dentist. Please read our Medical Disclaimer.