Did You Know That Dental Fillings Are Used to Reinstate Teeth Damaged by Decay or Cavities?

Got a cavity? You’re not alone—and the solution is easier than you think. If you’re looking for dental fillings, you’ll be glad to know they do more than fix teeth—they restore comfort, protect your smile, and keep problems from snowballing. At Infinity Dental, we make sure you know what to expect so your next visit feels simple, stress-free, and maybe even a little empowering.

What Are Dental Fillings and Why Are They Needed?

Think of a filling as a small repair for your tooth. When decay eats away at a tooth, it leaves behind a hole—called a cavity. That hole weakens the tooth and can eventually cause pain or infection. A dental filling fixes that damage, so you can use your tooth normally again.

Here’s what dental fillings do:

• Fill in cavities left by decay
• Restore the strength and natural shape of a damaged tooth.
• Prevent further decay by sealing off the area
• Help stop sensitivity caused by exposed nerves

Without a filling, a cavity continues to spread, which can lead to a root canal—or worse, losing the tooth altogether. Taking care of it early not only prevents pain and extra costs but also supports long-term oral health goals by keeping your natural smile healthy and intact.

Signs You Might Need a Dental Filling

You don’t always feel a cavity forming, which is why regular checkups are a big deal. But your body often sends warning signs when something’s off.

Look out for these:

• Stinging pain when you eat or drink anything hot, cold, or sugary
• A conspicuous hole or dark spot on your tooth
• A feeling that something’s “off” when you bite down
• Toothaches that come and go
• Sensitivity in a specific area of your mouth

If you’re dealing with any of these, it’s time to visit a dentist near you who specializes in cosmetic dentistry so that they can inspect the damage and advise you of a solution accordingly.

Types of Dental Fillings: Materials and Benefits

Fillings come in different types. Your local dentist will recommend one based on the size of the cavity, where it is in your mouth and your personal needs.

Let’s explore your options:

Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored)

• Blend in with your natural tooth.
• Great for front teeth or visible areas
• Bonds directly to the tooth structure

Amalgam Fillings (Silver)

• Long-lasting and durable
• Often used for back molars.
• Can handle a lot of chewing pressure

Gold Fillings

• Extremely strong and long-lasting
• Can last over 15 years with good care
• Higher cost than other options

Ceramic Fillings

• Made from porcelain
• Stain-resistant and natural-looking
• More brittle than composite

No matter what material you choose, getting dental fillings can restore your tooth and help protect your oral health for years to come.

What to Expect During the Filling Procedure

There’s no need to feel nervous. Getting a filling is one of the most common and straightforward treatments in dentistry.

Here’s a quick look at how it goes:

Numbing the Area: Your dentist will use a local anesthetic so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.

Removing the Decay: Using special tools, the dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth.

Cleaning the Tooth: The space is cleaned to prevent bacteria from staying inside.

Placing the Filling: The filling material is added, shaped, and hardened using a special light (for some types).

Adjusting Your Bite: The dentist takes a look to make sure your bite feels natural and makes small adjustments if needed.

It usually takes under an hour, and you’ll be on your way with your tooth back to full function.

How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

Fillings don’t last forever, but with care, they can stick around for years. The material you choose, your eating habits, and how well you take care of your teeth all play a role.

Here’s a general idea:

• Amalgam: 10–15 years
• Composite: 5–10 years
• Gold: 15+ years
• Ceramic: 10–15 years

If you grind your teeth or chew ice often, your filling may wear down sooner. That’s why it’s important to keep up with checkups at your dental office. Dentists can spot early signs of wear before problems show up.

How to Care for Your Teeth After Getting a Filling

Taking care of your filling is just like taking care of your natural teeth. A little attention every day goes a long way.

Do:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily
• Try not to bite down on hard foods or objects.
• Keep up with regular dental visits.

Don’t:

• Skip your appointments
• Ignore pain, sensitivity, or pressure near the filled tooth.
• Chew ice or hard candy regularly.

If your filling feels loose or you notice a crack, reach out to an emergency dentist near you right away. Early action can prevent the issue from getting worse.

Final Thoughts

Don’t wait for the pain to get worse. Protect your smile and take control of your dental health today. At Infinity Dental, we offer services like dental fillings in Murray, UT, and are ready to help you feel better quickly with expert care and a friendly touch. Call now to book your appointment and find out if a filling is the right step for you.