A filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay. The decayed tissue is removed and the space restored so the tooth works normally again.
What happens on the day
- Freezing of the area so the procedure is comfortable.
- Removal of the decayed portion of the tooth.
- Placement and shaping of the filling.
- A check that your bite still meets correctly.
Common questions
Will it hurt?
The tooth is frozen first. You may feel pressure and vibration during, and some sensitivity to cold or pressure for a few days after as it settles.
What if I leave it?
Decay does not reverse once it is through the enamel. Left alone it works toward the nerve, and the treatment becomes a root canal or an extraction instead.
How long will a filling last?
It depends on size, position, how heavily you grind and your oral hygiene. Fillings are repairs rather than permanent replacements, and they get checked at each examination.