Dental Filling 101: What It Is and Why You Need It

Introduction

Have you ever had a small hole or crack in your tooth? If so, you might need a dental filling. Fillings are one of the most common ways dentists fix cavities and prevent bigger problems.

Cavities don’t go away on their own, and if left untreated, they can get worse, causing pain and even infection. That’s where a dental filling comes in—it seals the damaged part of the tooth, stopping decay and restoring strength.

At BK Dental, we’ve helped patients in Richmond Hill and Scarborough keep their smiles healthy with long-lasting, natural-looking fillings. In this guide, we’ll explain what a dental filling is, when you might need one, and how to take care of it.

What Is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is a material used to repair a damaged or decayed tooth. Think of it like a small patch that seals the hole left by a cavity or a crack. It prevents bacteria from getting inside and making things worse.

Here’s how it works:

1. Your dentist removes the decayed or damaged part of the tooth.
2. The area is cleaned to remove bacteria.
3. A filling material is placed inside to restore the tooth’s structure.
4. The filling is shaped and polished to blend naturally with your teeth.

Once the filling is in place, the tooth works just like normal—no pain, no sensitivity!

When Do You Need a Dental Filling?

Not sure if you need a filling? Here are some common signs:

✔ Tooth Sensitivity – If hot, cold, or sweet foods make your teeth hurt, you might have decay.
✔ Tooth Pain – A sharp or dull ache that doesn’t go away could mean a cavity.
✔ Visible Damage – If you see a hole, crack, or dark spot on your tooth, you might need a filling.
✔ Pain When Biting – If chewing feels uncomfortable, decay could be weakening your tooth.
✔ Old Fillings Wearing Out – If you’ve had fillings before, they may need to be replaced over time.

Cavities don’t fix themselves, so if you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to see a dentist before the problem gets worse.

Types of Dental Fillings

There are different types of dental fillings, each with its own benefits. Your dentist will help you choose the best one based on your needs.

Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings)

✔ Blends with natural teeth—great for front or visible teeth.
✔ Made of resin material, strong but may wear down faster than metal.

Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)

✔ Long-lasting and good for back teeth where strength matters.
✔ More affordable, but visible when you smile.

Gold Fillings

✔ Extremely durable—can last 20+ years.
✔ More expensive than other types, but some people like the look.

Ceramic (Porcelain) Fillings

✔ Matches tooth color and is stain-resistant.
✔ More fragile but a great choice for visible teeth.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

✔ Releases fluoride to help prevent more cavities.
✔ Mostly used for kids’ teeth or non-biting surfaces.

The Dental Filling Procedure – What to Expect

If you’ve never had a dental filling before, don’t worry—the process is quick and painless. Here’s what happens during your appointment:

1️⃣ Examination & X-rays – The dentist checks your teeth and may take an X-ray to find the decay.
2️⃣ Numbing the Area – A local anesthetic is applied to ensure you don’t feel pain.
3️⃣ Removing the Decay – The damaged part of the tooth is carefully cleaned out.
4️⃣ Placing the Filling – The dentist fills the hole with the chosen material.
5️⃣ Shaping & Polishing – The filling is adjusted for a natural bite and polished for smoothness.

Most fillings take about 30-60 minutes, and you can eat and drink normally soon after the anesthesia wears off.

How to Take Care of Your Dental Filling

Your new dental filling can last years with proper care. Here’s how to keep it in great shape:

✔ Brush & floss daily – This helps prevent new cavities.
✔ Use a soft-bristled toothbrush – It’s gentle on both teeth and fillings.
✔ Avoid very hard or sticky foods – Biting into hard candies or ice can damage fillings.
✔ Visit your dentist regularly – Regular check-ups ensure your fillings stay in good condition.

When to Replace a Dental Filling

Fillings don’t last forever. Over time, they can wear down, crack, or even fall out. Check out the article on what will happen when the crown falls out.
Here’s how to know when you might need a new one:

• You feel pain or sensitivity in the same tooth.
• The filling looks cracked or chipped when you check in the mirror.
• Food keeps getting stuck in the area around the filling.
• Your dentist tells you it’s wearing out during a routine check-up.

Ignoring a worn-out dental filling can lead to bigger problems, so it’s best to get it replaced before it causes pain.

Why Choose BK Dental for Your Dental Fillings?

At BK Dental, we make getting a dental filling easy and stress-free. Here’s why patients in Richmond Hill and Scarborough trust us:

✔ Expert dentists who ensure your filling is done right.
✔ Pain-free procedures with gentle care.
✔ Natural-looking fillings that blend with your teeth.
✔ Affordable pricing & insurance-friendly options.

Whether you need a new filling or a replacement, we’re here to help keep your smile healthy!