When is a Filling Needed?
A filling is needed when the tooth surface is damaged by decay, fracture, or wear. Any decay or wear weakens the tooth. A filling helps strengthen the tooth. If decay is not treated early, it will worsen and spread, leading to more extensive dental procedures.
How Long Can a Filling Last?
With proper care and good brushing, a filling can last 5-12 years, depending upon the type of filling material used.
What Type of Material Are Available?
Composite (Tooth Colored Filling)
- Composite is a strong plastic material that blends with the natural color of teeth. It can last 5-7 years with proper care and brushing.
Composite Filling
Amalgam (Silver Filling)
- Amalgam is made of a mixture of metals. It can last 7-12 years with proper care and brushing.
Amalgam (Silver Filling)
What’s the Procedure?
- A local anesthetic is applied to numb the tooth so you don’t feel any pain.
- A hand-held instrument is used to prepare your tooth by removing the decayed or damaged tooth surface. Bacteria and debris is also removed.
- Dental adhesives is placed to make sure the filling material (composite or amalgam) is securely locked into the tooth.
- The selected filling material (composite or amalgam) is applied, shaped and polished. If the filling is deep and close to the pulp of the tooth, a medicated layer called Dycal or Theracal will be applied to protect and help the pulp heal.
How Much Will it Cost
The price of the filling will depend on the filling material used, the size of the filling (the number of surfaces involved).