Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Fillings
What Are Tooth Fillings?
A filling works like a small, strong patch. It seals the tooth to stop tiny germs (bacteria) from getting inside. This immediately stops the cavity from getting bigger and helps your tooth become strong so you can chew well again without pain or sensitivity.
Getting a filling is a simple but key way to protect your teeth from bigger problems later on, like needing treatment like a root canal.
At ScarboroSmiles in Scarborough, ON, we use materials that are safe and match your tooth colour, and take careful steps so your filling lasts a long time.
How can I tell if I need a filling?
Look for these signs:
Pain in a tooth that keeps coming back.
Your tooth hurts when you eat hot or cold foods.
You see dark spots or small holes on your tooth.
If you notice you have any of these signs, it's time to call us so a dentist can check your tooth.
Does it hurt to get a filling?
We want you to be comfortable! We use a special medicine called a local anesthetic (like lidocaine) to make the tooth area completely numb before we start the treatment.
That means you should feel very little or no pain while our dental team is completing your treatment.
How long does a filling last?
How long a filling lasts depends mostly on what it's made of.
Composite fillings (the white, tooth-coloured ones) usually work well for about 5 to 7 years if you brush and take good care of them.
Ceramic fillings (the shiny, white-coloured ones) are very strong and often last much longer—usually 10 to 15 years or even more!
Glass ionomer fillings usually last a shorter time, around 2 to 5 years. They are often used in areas that don't get much chewing pressure.
A note about your filling: If you ever feel like your filling is loose, rough, or if you feel any new pain or sensitivity around it, please contact our dental team right away! We can check your filling to make sure it is still sealed and secure.
Can fillings fall out?
Yes, sometimes. After many years, or if new decay grows around them, fillings can get loose. Coming in for your regular check-ups lets us look closely at your fillings to make sure they are sealed tightly. This helps stop them from falling out.
Are tooth-coloured fillings as strong as metal ones?
Dental materials are always getting better! The tooth-coloured composite fillings are now very tough and strong. They can be used successfully to fix most teeth in your mouth.
