What it is
A filling repairs a tooth with a cavity or a small break. The damaged part of the tooth is removed and the space is filled, most often with a tooth-coloured material called composite, which is shaped to match the tooth and hardened with a special light.
Step 1
Before your visit
- Eat a normal meal beforehand. Your lip and tongue may stay numb for a few hours afterwards.
- Let the office know about your medications, allergies, and any past reaction to dental freezing.
- If you feel nervous, say so when you book. There are ways to make the visit more comfortable.
- Brush and floss as usual before you come in.
Step 2
During the visit
- The area is usually numbed with local anaesthetic (freezing), so you feel pressure but not pain.
- The decayed or damaged part of the tooth is removed.
- The tooth is cleaned and the filling material is placed, often in thin layers.
- The filling is hardened, then shaped and polished so your bite feels natural.
Step 3
After and recovery
- Wait until the numbness wears off before eating, so you do not bite your cheek or tongue.
- Some sensitivity to cold or to biting is common for a few days and usually fades on its own.
- If your bite feels high or uneven once the freezing wears off, call the office. It is usually a quick adjustment.
- Brushing, flossing, and regular checkups help a filling last.
Common questions
How long does a filling last?
It depends on the size of the filling, the material, and your habits. Many fillings last for years, and your dentist checks them at your regular visits.
Can I eat after a filling?
Composite fillings are hardened before you leave. Most people are told to wait until the numbness is gone, so they do not bite their cheek or tongue.
Why is my tooth sensitive after a filling?
Mild sensitivity is common, especially after a deeper filling, and usually settles within a few days to a few weeks. If it gets worse or does not ease, let your dentist know.