TL;DR
- Teeth fillings are common dental procedures aimed at restoring oral function and aesthetics.
- Common options include amalgam, ceramic, composite, porcelain, and glass ionomer cement.
- Persistent toothache, sensitivity, visible discoloration, chewing discomfort, bad taste or smell, and rough edges indicate the need for fillings.
- The procedure involves X-ray, tooth isolation and preparation, anesthesia, decay removal, cavity preparation, filling, and polishing and finishing.
- Good oral hygiene, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and regular dental checkups help the fillings last as long as 15 years.
- The cost of teeth fillings ranges between $100 and $300, depending on the type and tooth condition.
Teeth Fillings: An Easy Guide
When tooth decay or tiny cavities appear, tooth fillings offer a simple and reliable fix. They help restore your tooth’s natural shape and stop further damage, so you can smile, chew, and talk comfortably again. The best part is that modern tooth fillings are quick, painless, and last for years when properly cared for.
Your dentist uses advanced materials and techniques to make teeth fillings look and feel natural. Whether it’s a small cavity or a deeper repair, the process focuses on saving your natural tooth and strengthening it from within. Understanding how teeth fillings work helps you stay informed and confident about maintaining your oral health.
Types of Fillings for Teeth
Dentists choose between different types of fillings based on location, size, and your needs. Each type has its own special advantage. The following is an explanation of the major options:
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings are made of silver, mercury, tin, zinc, and copper. Because these are very durable and can last for 10 to 15 years, they are suitable for back teeth. The advantage of these types of fillings is their affordability and ease of application. They are particularly appropriate in high-bite areas. The main drawbacks are that they have a visible silver color, there are concerns about mercury safety, and slight expansion can cause cracks.
Composite Resin Fillings
Composite fillings combine plastic and glass particles to achieve a natural-colored filling for front teeth or visible areas. They also directly bond to the tooth and preserve additional tooth structure. They take roughly 20 minutes per application and have good aesthetics. The disadvantages are that they last a shorter period of time (5 to 10 years), are more expensive, and are subject to stains.
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are made from a gold alloy mixed with other metals for added strength. They are exceptionally durable and often last more than 20 years, making them suitable for molars that handle heavy chewing. These fillings are biocompatible and resistant to corrosion. However, they are significantly more expensive than other options and usually require multiple dental visits to complete the casting and placement.
Ceramic/Porcelain Fillings
Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain in a dental laboratory and provide strong, stain-resistant, tooth-colored restorations that can last more than 15 years. They are commonly used as inlays or onlays for moderate-sized cavities and offer secure bonding with excellent aesthetics. Their main limitations are the higher cost and the possibility of wear on the opposing tooth if the ceramic surface becomes rough.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer cement combines glass particles with acrylic and releases fluoride, which helps protect against further decay. It is often used for children’s teeth or for cavities near the gum line and root surfaces. These fillings bond to the tooth on their own and provide added protection in areas where moisture control is difficult. However, they have lower strength than other materials and typically last around 5 to 7 years, making them less suitable for areas exposed to heavy biting pressure.
Signs You Might Need a Filling
As per experts at Le Sueur Family Dental, here are some signs that indicate you require tooth fillings:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, indicating that decay has reached the inner layer.
- Sharp pain when biting or chewing, suggesting a cavity or crack affecting the nerves.
- Visible holes, pits, or dark spots that point to enamel damage.
- Food getting trapped between teeth because decay has created small gaps or rough edges.
- A bad taste or lingering smell caused by bacteria beneath the decayed area.
- Rough or chipped edges that irritate the tongue or cheeks.
- A persistent toothache, dull or sharp, signaling deeper decay that needs prompt treatment.
Step-by-Step Process of Getting a Filling
The process of getting a tooth filling is quick and routine for most patients. The visit will typically last between 30 to 60 minutes. Here is how it works:
Dental Examination
- Your dentist begins by conducting an oral examination, during which they locate soft spots on the tooth using a mirror or an explorer.
- X-rays will confirm hidden decay beneath the surface of your teeth or between them. This step confirms the size of the cavity and rules out bigger issues like abscesses.
Anesthesia
- The dentist administers local anesthesia near the affected tooth to numb the area.
- You will feel a quick pinch and then virtually nothing during the procedure.
- Relaxation can be enhanced for children or any anxious patient by adding options such as nitrous oxide.
- Numbing ensures zero pain during drilling. It wears off in 1 to 2 hours, letting you drive home safely.
Removing Decay
- The dentist uses a high-speed handpiece to drill away the decay. This takes out the bacteria and the softened enamel or dentin.
- Dentists shape the cavity to support a filling. Very often, a rubber dam isolates the tooth, keeping it dry and saliva-free.
Cleaning the Cavity
- Once the dentist removes the decay, they rinse and clean the hole.
- Special solutions are used to kill leftover bacteria and debris.
- Air blasts dry the space for perfect bonding. This step prevents reinfection and ensures the filling seals tightly.
Filling the Tooth
- Dentists pack the prepared tooth with a suitable material, such as composite, amalgam, or another material.
- For composites, they layer it, shape it to match the bite, and focus a blue light to harden it fast.
- Amalgam sets on its own after mixing. They sculpt for natural contours and check your bite with marking paper.
Polishing and Finishing
- The dentist polished the filling to smooth it, preventing food lodgement.
- They trim excess and fluoridate for protection.
- A quick bite test ensures comfort.
Aftercare and Maintenance Tips
Here are some expert tips from Le Sueur Family Dental to support smooth recovery and long-term maintenance:
- Expect mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure for 1–2 weeks; it usually settles on its own.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods such as gum, caramels, and nuts for 24–48 hours to allow the filling to set.
- Chew on the opposite side until the numbness wears off, and your bite feels normal.
- Brush and floss gently using a soft brush and non-abrasive toothpaste; rinse with warm water to soothe the gums.
- Watch for sharp pain, swelling, or a loose filling, and contact your dentist if these occur.
- Attend regular check-ups and X-rays every 6–12 months to monitor the filling and detect new decay.
How Much Do Teeth Fillings Cost?
Fillings for teeth typically cost between $100 and $300 per tooth, but the exact price depends on the material used, the size of the cavity, and the clinic’s location.
- Amalgam fillings: $100 to $200
- Composite (tooth-colored) fillings: $100 to $500
- Ceramic/porcelain fillings: $500 to $2,800
- Gold fillings: $400 to $1,500 or more
- Glass ionomer: $100 to $300.
The Bottom Line
Teeth fillings are among the most straightforward and least expensive ways to save your natural smile. They protect the teeth from further decay, restore strength, and keep your bite comfortable. Given the modern techniques, getting teeth fillings is quick and a very smooth experience that leaves your teeth looking and feeling natural.
With Le Sueur Family Dental, you can rest assured that you will receive the best-quality composite fillings tailored to your needs from an expert team. Advanced materials used at the clinic perfectly blend with your teeth, guarantee durability, and create a flawless finish. It’s an easy way to refresh your smile and protect your oral health.
To connect with our Le Sueur dentist, call (507) 665-6812 or email us at office@lesueurfamilydental.com. You can also visit us at 219 South 2nd Street, Le Sueur, MN 56058.
FAQs
How do teeth fillings work to treat cavities?
Tooth fillings are dental treatments for cavities that involve removing decayed material from the tooth and filling the space with a durable material to prevent further decay and restore the tooth’s structure and function.
Does a dental filling procedure hurt?
Having dental fillings is generally painless. Your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic, so you may only feel a slight pinch, but afterwards, the filling itself shouldn’t hurt you. You could experience sensitivity afterwards.
How long does a tooth filling procedure take?
A filling in the tooth usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the size of the cavity and the type of filling; smaller ones take less time, while complex fillings take longer. Your dentist can provide an estimate of the time involved.
How long do teeth fillings usually last?
With proper care, tooth fillings can last 5 to 15 years or more. Composite fillings usually last 5 to 10 years, and amalgam fillings can last up to 15 years or even more. Good oral hygiene and regular checkups help extend their life.
Can dental fillings fall out on their own?
Dental fillings may fall out or be dislodged because of decay, trauma, or wear and tear. If a filling falls out, see your dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage and a potential infection. Don’t wait; get it fixed right away.
