What a Filling Is
A filling repairs a tooth after a cavity has been cleaned out, restoring its shape and stopping decay from spreading further. We use tooth-colored composite material that bonds directly to the tooth, blending naturally with your smile rather than the dark metal fillings of decades past.
When You Need One
You may need a filling if a cavity shows up during an exam or on an X-ray, if you notice a new rough spot or dark area on a tooth, or if you have new sensitivity to sweets or temperature. Many small cavities cause no symptoms at all, which is part of why we check for them at every routine visit.
Our Conservative Approach
We only recommend a filling once decay has actually reached the point of needing treatment — not before. Our goal is to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible, treating the smallest area necessary to stop decay and protect the tooth long-term.
What to Expect
Most fillings are completed in a single visit. We numb the area, remove the decayed portion of the tooth, and rebuild it with composite material, shaping and polishing it to match your bite. Most patients return to normal eating within a couple of hours, once the numbness wears off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does getting a filling hurt?
The area is fully numbed before we start, so most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure itself. Some mild sensitivity afterward is normal and typically fades within a few days.
How long do fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last many years with good oral hygiene, though they can eventually wear down or need replacement — we'll check them at your regular visits.
Can I eat right after getting a filling?
We generally recommend waiting until the numbness wears off, usually a couple of hours, to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
Ready to Schedule?
Book a visit or give us a call — we're happy to talk through whether this is the right fit for you.