What Is a Tooth Filling?
A filling repairs a tooth that’s been damaged by decay or a small fracture. The dentist removes the damaged part and fills the space with a material that restores the tooth’s shape and lets you chew normally again. It’s the most common type of restorative dentistry, and usually the simplest.
Decay (dental caries) starts in the hard outer enamel and works its way in. In the early stages it may cause no pain at all, which is why check-ups matter. Once it reaches the softer layer underneath, the tooth often becomes sensitive to sweets and cold. Left longer, decay can reach the nerve and lead to toothache, a root canal or even losing the tooth.
Fillings are also used to replace old fillings that have cracked, leaked or developed new decay around the edges (secondary decay).
Types of Fillings
| Material | What it is | Typically used for |
|---|---|---|
| Composite resin | Tooth-coloured plastic and glass mix, set with a curing light | Most front and back teeth fillings |
| Glass ionomer | Tooth-coloured material that releases fluoride | Fillings near the gumline, children’s teeth, temporary repairs |
| Dental amalgam | Silver-coloured metal alloy | Being phased down; rarely placed new |
| Inlay or onlay | A lab-made piece bonded into the tooth | Larger repairs where a filling would be weak |
The materials offered will be confirmed by the clinic. If you have a preference, mention it when you request your appointment.
How a Filling Is Done
Most fillings take one visit. After numbing the tooth with local anaesthetic, the dentist removes the decay, cleans the cavity and applies a bonding agent. Composite is then placed in thin layers, each hardened with a curing light. Finally the filling is shaped, your bite is checked and the surface is polished.
Visiting Bali?
A filling is usually a single appointment, so it fits easily into a holiday. Ask for your treatment notes so your home dentist knows what was done.
When a Filling Isn’t Enough
A filling relies on the healthy tooth around it for strength. If too much of the tooth is gone, or there’s a crack running through it, a crown or onlay may protect it better. If the decay has reached the nerve and the tooth aches on its own, a root canal may be needed first. The dentist will show you what they see on the X-ray and explain the options.
Aftercare
- Wait until the numbness wears off before eating
- Expect mild sensitivity to cold for a few days
- If your bite feels high or uneven, contact the clinic for a quick adjustment
- Keep up brushing, cleaning between teeth and regular check-ups to protect the filling
