Tooth fillings are one of the most common dental treatments, helping to restore and protect teeth affected by tooth decay, fractures, or wear. Whether you’ve experienced a cavity, chipped a tooth, or simply want to maintain a healthy smile, understanding what a tooth filling is and the options available enables you to make well-informed choices regarding your dental health. From dental amalgam to composite fillings, each filling material serves a unique purpose, ensuring the longevity of your tooth structure. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about dental fillings, the filling procedure, and how to choose the right type of tooth filling for your needs.
Understanding Tooth Fillings: What Are They?
If you’ve ever had a cavity or chipped a tooth, chances are you’ve heard of tooth fillings. But what is a tooth filling exactly? A tooth filling is a restorative dental treatment intended to repair minor to moderate damage to a tooth’s structure, often caused by tooth decay, fractures, or wear. The filling restores the tooth’s original shape, function, and integrity, preventing further damage and potential tooth loss.
A dental filling procedure is a straightforward treatment that typically requires one dental visit and is performed under local anaesthetic to ensure comfort. Dental fillings are available in various materials, each providing distinct advantages based on the tooth’s location and the patient’s specific requirements.
Why Do You Need a Tooth Filling?
Tooth fillings play a crucial role in dental restorations, helping to repair and protect damaged teeth. Whether due to tooth decay, trauma, or general wear, a tooth filling restores the tooth structure and prevents further damage. Here are some common reasons why you might need a dental filling procedure:
1. Tooth Decay and Cavities
One of the primary reasons for needing a filling is tooth decay. As bacteria in the mouth break down sugars, they release acids that gradually wear away the enamel, resulting in cavities. If untreated, cavities can expand, reaching the tooth’s deeper layers, which may necessitate a root canal or even extraction. A dental filling stops the decay from spreading and restores the tooth’s surface to its natural function.
2. Cracked or Chipped Teeth
Teeth may crack or chip due to accidents, chewing on hard foods, or nighttime teeth grinding. A filling procedure can help repair minor cracks, reinforce the tooth’s structure, and protect against further decay or damage.
3. Worn-Down Teeth
Teeth may wear down over time due to bruxism (teeth grinding), acidic foods, or natural ageing. A tooth filling helps rebuild the tooth’s natural shape, preventing sensitivity and discomfort.
4. Preventing Further Damage
If a damaged tooth is unaddressed, it can become more susceptible to further decay and even missing teeth. By getting a filling procedure early, you can avoid more extensive dental treatments such as root canal treatment appointments or emergency dental treatment.
5. Restoring the Tooth’s Function and Appearance
A filling not only protects a damaged tooth but also restores its appearance and function. Teeth can crack or chip because of accidents, biting into hard foods, or grinding during sleep. A filling procedure can restore minor cracks, strengthen the tooth’s structure, and safeguard it from further decay or damage.
Ignoring the need for a dental filling can put you at a greater risk of more severe dental problems. Regular dental visits can detect cavities early, ensuring timely intervention with the right filling material.
The Dental Filling Procedure: What to Expect
If your dentist determines that you need a filling, here’s what the process involves:
1. Numbing the Area
A local anaesthetic is applied to numb the affected tooth and surrounding gums, ensuring you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
2. Removing the Decay
The decayed portion of the tooth cavity is removed using a drill, air abrasion tool, or laser. The selection of the tool is determined by the cavity’s size and location.
3. Cleaning and Preparing the Tooth
After the decay is removed, the tooth structure is thoroughly cleaned to remove any bacteria or debris before applying the filling material.
4. Placing the Filling
The selected dental filling material is placed into the cavity and moulded to align with the tooth’s natural shape. Tooth fillings can be applied in a single session (direct fillings) or may require a dental laboratory to create a custom indirect filling.
5. Final Adjustments and Polishing
Following the filling procedure, the dentist refines and polishes the filling to create a natural appearance and ensure a comfortable bite.
Types of Dental Fillings: Choosing the Right One
There are various filling materials available, each with advantages and drawbacks. The best option for you will depend on the cavity’s location, cost considerations, and personal preferences.
1. Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings have been used for over a century and are composed of a mixture of mercury, other metals like silver, tin, and copper.
Pros:
Strong and long-lasting
Cost-effective
Suitable for molars where durability is essential
Cons:
Amalgam contains free mercury, which raises concerns among some patients
Silver colour makes them more noticeable
May expand and contract, leading to cracks in the tooth structure over time
2. Composite Fillings (Tooth-Coloured Fillings)
Composite fillings, also called tooth-coloured fillings, are made of composite resin and blend seamlessly with natural teeth.
Pros:
Aesthetic appeal – ideal for front teeth
Bonds directly to the tooth, preserving more natural tooth structure
Requires minimal tooth removal
Cons:
Less durable than amalgam
More expensive than silver fillings
Can stain or change colour over time
3. Porcelain Fillings (Ceramic Fillings)
Porcelain fillings, also known as ceramic restorations, are crafted in a dental laboratory and custom-made to fit the cavity perfectly.
Pros:
Highly resistant to stains
Long-lasting and durable
Tooth coloured for a natural appearance
Cons:
More expensive than composite fillings
Requires more than a single appointment
4. Gold Fillings
Gold fillings consist of a blend of gold and other metals, offering exceptional durability and long-lasting performance.
Pros:
Extremely strong and resistant to wear
Can last 20+ years
Does not corrode
Cons:
Expensive
Highly visible
Requires multiple visits
5. Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are made from acrylic and glass ionomer cement, which releases fluoride to help protect the tooth from further decay.
Pros:
Bonds well to tooth structure
Releases fluoride to strengthen enamel
Suitable for children and non-load-bearing teeth
Cons:
Less durable than composite, gold or porcelain filling
More prone to wear and breakage
Direct vs. Indirect Fillings: What’s the Difference?
Direct fillings are completed in a single appointment, while indirect fillings require fabrication in a dental laboratory before placement.
Direct Fillings: Includes composite, amalgam, and glass ionomer fillings.
Indirect Fillings: Includes gold fillings, porcelain fillings, and composite restorations (inlays and onlays).
Temporary Fillings: When Are They Needed?
Sometimes, a temporary filling is placed before a permanent one, particularly in root canal treatment appointments or emergency dental treatment cases. Temporary fillings protect the tooth cavity but should be replaced with a permanent filling as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Are Dental Fillings Safe?
Yes, dental fillings are considered safe by the Australian Dental Association. While some concerns have been raised about free mercury in amalgam fillings, extensive research has found them to be safe for most patients. If you have any concerns, consult your dentist about alternative filling materials such as composite resin or porcelain.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Filling? Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Tooth fillings are durable but not permanent. Over time, they can wear out, become loose, or even crack, exposing the tooth structure to further decay and damage. Recognising when you need to replace a dental filling is crucial to maintaining your oral health and preventing the need for further treatments like a root canal or emergency dental treatment. Here are some signs that it might be time to replace your filling:
1. Pain or Sensitivity
If you experience sharp pain or sensitivity when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods, it may be a sign that your filling material is deteriorating, allowing bacteria to penetrate and cause decay beneath the filling.
2. Visible Cracks or Damage
Over time, amalgam fillings, composite fillings, and porcelain fillings can develop tiny fractures due to everyday biting and chewing forces. If you notice visible cracks, your dentist may recommend replacing the filling to prevent further damage to the tooth’s surface.
3. A Rough or Uneven Surface
A healthy dental filling should feel smooth and blend seamlessly with your natural tooth structure. If you notice rough edges or feel that your bite has changed, it may be a sign that your filling is worn down and needs replacement.
4. Discolouration or Staining
Some filling materials, especially tooth coloured fillings like composite resin, often stain over time due to coffee, tea, or smoking. While staining is usually cosmetic, a severe change in colour may indicate the filling is deteriorating and should be evaluated by a dentist.
5. A Loose or Missing Filling
If your filling feels loose or falls out entirely, it is a dental emergency. A missing filling exposes the tooth cavity to bacteria, increasing the risk of infection or decay. If this occurs, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to have the filling replaced.
6. Signs of Decay Around the Filling
Decay can sometimes form around the edges of a dental filling, resulting in new cavities beneath or adjacent to the existing restoration. If detected early during a dental visit, your dentist may recommend replacing the filling to stop the decay from spreading.
7. Aged Fillings
The lifespan of a tooth filling is influenced by the type of filling material used:
Amalgam fillings: 10-15 years
Composite restorations: 5-10 years
Gold fillings: 15-30 years
Porcelain fillings: 10-20 years
Glass ionomer cement: 5-7 years
If your filling is approaching or has exceeded its expected lifespan, it’s a good idea to have it assessed by your dentist.
8. Pain or Discomfort When Biting
If you experience pain when chewing, it may indicate that your filling procedure was not completed correctly or that the filling has shifted, leading to an improper bite. Your dentist can evaluate whether an adjustment or full replacement is needed.
How to Extend the Life of Your Fillings
To keep your dental restorations in good shape and avoid premature replacement, follow these tips:
Practise good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily to maintain healthy teeth and prolong the life of your fillings.
Avoid biting into hard foods like ice cubes or nuts to prevent damage to your fillings and natural teeth.
Schedule regular dental visits for check-ups and early detection of problems.
If you tend to grind your teeth at night, using a nightguard can help protect your tooth fillings and prevent unnecessary wear.
If you suspect that your tooth filling needs to be replaced, don’t wait for further decay to set in. A quick dental visit can prevent more extensive procedures and help maintain your natural tooth structure for years to come.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Smile Healthy and Strong
Tooth fillings are a vital part of dental restorations, protecting your teeth from decay, damage, and missing teeth. Whether you choose composite fillings, gold fillings, or porcelain fillings, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups help maintain the longevity of your treatment and detect any issues early.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Healthline. (n.d.). Dental anesthesia: What you need to know. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/dental-anesthesia
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Dental fillings. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17002-dental-fillings
ScienceDirect. (n.d.). Composite material. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/composite-material
Colgate. (n.d.). What is good oral hygiene? Retrieved from https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-oral-care/what-is-good-oral-hygiene
National Health Service (NHS). (n.d.). Chipped, broken, or cracked tooth. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chipped-broken-or-cracked-tooth/
This helps give our patients who are undergoing treatment at our clinic peace of mind knowing that we have demonstrated evidence-based quality standards of care.
If you have an urgent problem, call us on (07) 3113 9789. We will almost always be available to help out as times are reserved every day for emergencies, including Saturdays and Sundays.
