What are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are one of the most common and effective treatments in restorative dentistry. They are used to repair cavities, minor cracks, or chips in your teeth, helping restore both function and appearance.
Also known as tooth fillings or cavity fillings, this procedure involves cleaning the damaged part of the tooth and filling the space with a suitable material to restore its shape and strength.
Sometimes referred to as dental restorations, fillings are part of a broader set of treatments that also include crowns, inlays, onlays, and bridges, all aimed at preserving your natural teeth.
Tooth decay, trauma, or habits like teeth grinding and nail-biting can weaken your teeth over time. A dental filling:
- Seals the damaged area
- Prevents further decay
- Helps maintain the tooth’s integrity
Depending on your case, your dentist will recommend the best type of filling material, such as:
- Composite resin
- Porcelain
- Amalgam
How They Work
- Remove the decayed or damaged part of the tooth
- Clean the affected area thoroughly
- Fill and seal the cavity with a chosen filling material
- Restore the tooth’s structure, function, and aesthetics
Why Choose Apex Hospitals for Dental Fillings?
At Apex Hospitals, we combine advanced techniques with compassionate care:
- NABH-accredited dental facility
- Experienced dentists and prosthodontists
- Digital X-rays & painless local anaesthesia
- Aesthetic composite fillings for a natural look
- Same-day appointments and quick procedures
Who Should Get a Dental Filling?
Dental fillings are commonly recommended for:
- Tooth decay (cavities)
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Worn-down teeth from grinding (bruxism)
- Small gaps or irregular surfaces in teeth
- Post-root canal sealing
> Early intervention with a filling can save you from more extensive dental work later.
What to Expect During a Dental Filling Procedure
If you're scheduled for a dental filling, here’s what typically happens:
1. Numbing the Area
- Local anaesthetic is applied to numb the tooth and surrounding gums.
2. Removing the Decay
- The dentist uses a small drill or laser to gently remove the decayed or damaged part of your tooth.
3. Cleaning the Cavity
- The area is thoroughly cleaned to remove bacteria and debris.
4. Applying the Filling
- The cavity is filled with a material like composite resin, amalgam, or ceramic.
- For composite, it's applied in layers and hardened with a curing light.
5. Shaping and Polishing
- The dentist shapes the filling to match your bite and polishes the surface.
6. Bite Check
- You’ll bite down on carbon paper to ensure a comfortable fit.
7. After the Procedure
- Mild numbness for a few hours is normal.
- Avoid hard or hot foods until the numbness wears off.
- Mild sensitivity is common but temporary.
Benefits of Getting Dental Fillings
- Prevents further decay
- Restores chewing function
- Enhances tooth appearance
- Strengthens tooth structure
- Saves cost by avoiding future complications
Meet Our Dental Experts
- Dr. Basant Gupta – MDS, CADSS (University of Frankfurt), 24+ years
- Expert in Prosthodontics and Implantology
- Dr. Gurjeet Kaur – BDS, 19+ years
- Known for precise crown fittings and smile transformations
Related Dental Services
Have a cavity or chipped tooth? Don’t wait!
Book your consultation at Apex Hospitals today
Restore your smile, relieve discomfort, and enjoy better oral health in just one visit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- No, the procedure is done under local anaesthesia and is virtually pain-free.
Q1: Are dental fillings painful?
- Composite fillings last 5–10 years, while metal ones can last longer with good oral hygiene.
Q2: How long do dental fillings last?
- You may eat after a few hours. Avoid hard foods until numbness wears off.
Q3: Can I eat immediately after a filling?
- Yes, they are safe, BPA-free, and blend seamlessly with your natural tooth.
Q4: Are tooth-coloured fillings safe?
- Yes, most insurance plans cover restorative dental procedures. Check with your provider.
Q5: Is the procedure covered by insurance?
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