Tooth fillings
Cavities repaired while they are still small, with a filling matched to your tooth.
General information, not a diagnosis.
What it means
A filling repairs a tooth where decay (a cavity) has damaged the enamel. The decayed portion is removed and replaced with a tooth-coloured or other material that restores the shape and function of the tooth.
When people may ask about it
You may notice a toothache, sensitivity to sweets or cold, a visible dark spot on a tooth, or food getting stuck in a particular place. Sometimes a cavity is found during a check-up before any symptom appears.
What a visit may involve
The area around the tooth is numbed so you feel as little discomfort as possible. The dentist removes the decayed material, shapes the space, and places the filling. The whole procedure usually takes under an hour for a single tooth.
Aftercare basics
Avoid eating on that side until numbness has completely worn off. Some sensitivity in the following days is normal. If the bite feels high or discomfort continues after a few days, contact the clinic.
Questions to ask
- Will the filling look the same colour as my tooth?
- How long does a filling last?
- Can a large cavity still be filled, or would I need something else?