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Dental filling procedure: materials, benefits and aftercare

Dental fillings help restore tooth decay and minor to moderate tooth damage by filling in gaps and restoring the tooth’s integrity. These procedures are easy and pain-free for patients. Here’s how fillings work, including the materials used and what to expect after receiving a filling.  

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What are dental fillings?

Dental fillings are a restorative dental procedure where a dentist restores a damaged or decayed tooth section by filling the area with special materials. They are often used when the tooth can be saved and does not need removal and replacement. 

What materials are dental fillings made of? 

Dentists may use several materials for dental fillings, each with unique benefits and considerations: 

A detailed illustration of a tooth with an amalgam filling, showcasing a traditional dental restoration procedure by Aspen Dental.

Amalgam

Amalgam is a mixture of silver, zinc, tin, copper, and mercury. Amalgam fillings are durable, strong, long-lasting and more affordable than some other options. However, they don’t blend seamlessly with the tooth’s natural shade since they have a silver color. So, they may work better for teeth further back in the mouth, such as the molars. 

The American Dental Association (ADA), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and several public health agencies have stated that silver (mercury-based) amalgam fillings are safe. However, patients may still have concerns about the mercury content. If so, other materials may be available. 

A 3D model of a tooth featuring a glass ionomer filling, demonstrating a dental restoration technique used by Aspen Dental.

Glass ionomer

An ionomer is a special type of plastic designed for strength and flexibility. However, a glass ionomer combines glass with an acrylic ionomer to create a more natural-looking material for fillings. This filling material fits well into the existing tooth structure and releases fluoride directly into the tooth, guarding against decay. 
 
That said, glass ionomer is weaker and less durable than materials like amalgam. They can wear or even fracture when force is applied regularly. The weaker durability but more natural look often suits glass ionomer fillings to the more visible front teeth or baby teeth. 

A 3D model of a tooth featuring a resin composite filling, highlighting a modern and aesthetic dental restoration procedure by Aspen Dental.

Resin composite

A resin composite filling combines plastic resin with powdered glass or ceramic to match the tooth’s shade and color even better than glass ionomer. They offer more durability and strength than glass ionomer but less than amalgam. However, resin composites lack the fluoride release of glass ionomer and tend to cost more. They balance durability and appearance if you have the budget for them. 

How long does a dental filling procedure take?

Dental fillings generally take as little as 30 to 60 minutes. Here’s what to expect:

If you receive a resin composite filling, your dentist will shine a special curing light on it to harden it after placing the filling. 

Benefits of dental fillings

Dental fillings offer many benefits for such a straightforward dental procedure.

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Strengthen teeth

Biting with decayed or damaged teeth puts more force on a less stable tooth, increasing the risk of fracturing or other further damage. It also creates disparities in how pressure is displaced across the tooth. The filling helps to restore the tooth’s strength to sustain biting forces once more and distribute that force more evenly.  

A smiling patient walking alongside an Aspen Dental professional, highlighting a positive and comfortable dental care experience.

Preserve teeth structure

Dental fillings help reinforce the tooth’s structure by removing the damaged or decayed portion without extracting the entire tooth. The filling, meanwhile, restores structural integrity to the tooth. As a result, the tooth’s function is restored. 
 
This doesn’t just apply to the target tooth. Restoring the damaged tooth’s structure helps support nearby teeth by reducing excess wear and preventing those teeth from potentially shifting. 

An Aspen Dental professional having a thoughtful consultation with a patient, emphasizing personalized and compassionate dental care.

Prevent decay

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tooth decay is one of the most widespread health conditions in the world.
1 Tooth decay can spread and threaten the whole tooth when untreated. Advanced decay may require removing and replacing the tooth. The procedures involved (extraction and replacing the tooth) with these are more complex and costly. 
 

Part of the filling procedure is removing the decayed or damaged tissue, which helps stop the decay. Replacing that tissue with the filling material also plays a role since it doesn’t decay like tooth tissue can. As a result, you won’t have to have the tooth removed or go through other procedures like root canals. Plus, if the filling is glass ionomer, you could guard against decay further by remineralizing the teeth because it releases fluoride into surrounding tooth tissue. However, keep in mind that glass ionomers are rarely used anymore.

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Long lasting

A filling’s longevity depends on the material and which tooth it’s placed in. For example, silver amalgam and gold tend to be the strongest since they are metal. However, modern advancements in composite resins aren’t far behind in durability while offering a more natural look. These materials are often used on teeth that don’t play as big a role in chewing. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help you achieve the following dental filling lifespans, depending on the material: 

  • Amalgam: up to 15 years 

  • Ceramic: up to 15 years

  • Composite resin: up to 7 years

  •   Glass ionomer: up to 5 years 
     

Dental filling aftercare and recovery

Pain management can make the procedure itself painless. However, as that wears off afterward and the body begins to recover, you may experience minor pain and sensitivity for a few days. Here are some ways to manage pain and make for a quick and smooth recovery: 

How to care for your dental fillings

Caring for dental fillings is much like keeping your other teeth in good health. Here’s how to prolong the lifespan of your fillings: 

Dental fillings FAQs

Yes, but wait until the pain management wears off. Eating before it wears off can cause you to bite your cheek or tongue without noticing and cause serious injury. Even after it wears off, stick to a soft and liquid diet for a couple of days. Foods like soup, stew, yogurt, soft pasta, soft fruits, and smoothies or protein shakes may be good options. Chew any solid foods with the non-filling side of your mouth. After a few days pass, you may be able to return to your normal diet. However, continue to exercise care. 

Many patients experience minor pain and sensitivity for the first few days after the procedure. This is normal and should end within a week post-treatment. If you experience severe or prolonged pain or notice other issues, contact your dentist immediately to uncover the issue. 

Yes, you can and should brush after a filling. This helps to stop further decay on the target tooth and surrounding teeth. However, like with eating, wait until the pain management wears off so you have feeling in all areas of your mouth. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be gentle on the filling area to avoid triggering pain, sensitivity, or other issues.

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