Dental fillings provide excellent way to restore decayed teeth.

Frequently asked questions

Why Do I Need Dental Fillings?

A filling is usually used to fill a cavity. If left untreated, a cavity will get worse and could ultimately lead to tooth loss.

Is the Procedure Painful?

Your mouth will be numbed using local anaesthesia if necessary, so you should feel no pain during the procedure. You may have some slight tooth sensitivity afterward.

What Types of Dental Fillings Are There?

You’ll have several different options, each with its own pros and cons. We can help you select the right option based on your dental care needs, preferences, and budget:

Composite Resins

These are tooth-colour fillings that are growing in popularity in recent years because they are more cosmetically-pleasing compared to silver fillings. Made from composite resins, natural-colour fillings are best for small-to-medium-sized fillings that don’t need to withstand as much chewing pressure as molar teeth.

Benefits of composite fillings:

• The colour of your fillings can be matched to the natural colour of your other teeth, completely hiding fillings when you laugh or open your mouth.
• Composite fillings can be used in front teeth.
• Composite fillings greatly reduce the amount of tooth structure that needs to be removed compared to the prep that’s needed to accommodate an amalgam filling.
• Composite fillings bond to the tooth, and in some cases, can actually strengthen the tooth.

Glass ionomers

These tooth-colour materials are sometimes used for large cavities where the chewing pressure is more. Some release small amounts of fluoride, which can help if you’re prone to getting cavities.

Are Dental Fillings costly?

Costs vary according to the location and extent of your tooth decay or enamel erosion as well as the type of filling material used. We’ll help you determine the best choice for your dental needs and finances.

When Should I Replace the Fillings?

If you have older amalgam fillings that are defective, are causing gum inflammation, or show signs of decay underneath, they should be replaced. Generally, replacing amalgam fillings because of appearance, it should be done only after careful consideration.

Still have questions about your existing fillings or getting new fillings? Please contact our office with any concerns—we’d love to hear from you.