Dental Fillings for Cavities

Tooth decay — cavities — are among the most common health conditions in the world. When caught early, a filling is a straightforward, inexpensive solution that can be completed in a single appointment.

How Cavities Form

Decay begins when bacteria in the mouth produce acid from sugars and carbohydrates, which gradually dissolves tooth enamel. A small white spot of demineralisation can be reversed with fluoride at this stage. Once the enamel is breached, the decay enters the softer dentin layer and spreads more quickly. Without treatment, decay eventually reaches the pulp, causing severe pain and requiring a root canal or extraction.

The Filling Procedure

After numbing the area with local anesthesia, your dentist removes all decayed tooth structure using a drill or laser. The cavity is cleaned and the space is filled with the chosen material. Composite resin fillings are cured (hardened) with a bright blue light. The entire process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth.

Filling Materials

Composite resin (tooth-coloured): The most commonly used material today. Matched to your tooth colour and bonds directly to the tooth structure. Requires less removal of healthy tooth than amalgam. Slightly less durable than amalgam in heavy-chewing areas.

Dental amalgam (silver-coloured): An alloy of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. Highly durable, especially for large back-tooth restorations. Less aesthetic but extremely reliable. Has been used safely for over 150 years. Some patients and providers now prefer to avoid it.

Gold: The most durable option. Custom fabricated in a lab and cemented in place. Very expensive but can last 20+ years.

After Your Filling

Your mouth may remain numb for one to three hours after the procedure. Avoid chewing on the filled side until the numbness wears off. Some sensitivity to temperature and pressure is normal for a few weeks after a new filling.