What Are Dental Fillings?
Complete Guide to Dental Fillings, Dental Fillings are used to restore decayed, cracked, or damaged teeth. When tooth decay creates a cavity or when a tooth is worn down from habits like grinding or nail-biting, a filling helps rebuild the tooth structure and function.
They seal the area where bacteria can enter and help prevent further decay. Fillings also support the tooth, making chewing and biting more comfortable and efficient.
Common reasons to get a dental filling:
- Cavities due to tooth decay
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Worn-down teeth
- Tooth restoration after root canal treatment
Types of Dental Fillings
There are several types of dental fillings, and the right one depends on the location of the tooth, your budget, and cosmetic preferences.
1. Composite Fillings (White Tooth Fillings)
- Made from resin mixed with glass particles
- Tooth-colored and blend with natural teeth
- Ideal for front teeth or visible areas
Pros: Aesthetic, bonds to tooth structure
Cons: Less durable for large cavities; may wear out faster
2. Amalgam Fillings (Silver)
- Made from a mixture of metals including mercury, silver, tin, and copper
- Known for strength and durability
Pros: Strong and long-lasting, cost-effective
Cons: Not tooth-colored, visible on back teeth
3. Gold Fillings
- Custom-made and cemented into the cavity
Pros: Very durable (15+ years)
Cons: Expensive, not tooth-colored
4. Ceramic Fillings
- Made from porcelain
- Tooth-colored and more stain-resistant than composites
Pros: Aesthetic, durable
Cons: Costlier than composite
5. Glass Ionomer Fillings
- Release fluoride to protect teeth
- Often used for baby teeth or non-load-bearing areas
Pros: Good for children, cavity protection
Cons: Less durable, not suitable for biting surfaces
Step-by-Step Tooth Filling Procedure
Understanding the tooth filling procedure can help ease patient anxiety.
1. Examination and Diagnosis
- The dentist identifies cavities through a clinical exam or X-ray.
- The size and location of the decay determine the filling type.
2. Numbing the Area
- Local anesthesia is used to numb the area around the tooth.
3. Cleaning the Tooth
- Decay is removed using dental tools.
- The area is cleaned and dried to prepare for the filling.
4. Filling the Tooth
- The dentist applies the selected filling material.
- Composite is applied in layers and hardened with a curing light.
5. Shaping and Polishing
- The filled tooth is shaped to match your bite.
- It’s polished for a natural finish.
The full process usually takes 20–45 minutes per tooth.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
The lifespan depends on the type of material and your oral habits:
| Filling Material | Average Lifespan |
| Composite | 5–7 years |
| Amalgam | 10–15 years |
| Gold | 15+ years |
| Ceramic | 10–15 years |
| Glass Ionomer | 3–5 years (children) |
Factors like grinding teeth, poor oral hygiene, and eating hard foods can shorten the life of your filling.
Tooth Sensitivity After Filling: Is It Normal?
Yes, mild tooth sensitivity after a filling is common. You may feel discomfort when:
- Eating hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Biting down
Duration: Sensitivity usually fades within 1–2 weeks.
When to Worry: If pain is sharp, persistent, or worsens, contact Core Dental Hub for an evaluation.
Remedies:
- Use desensitizing toothpaste
- Avoid extreme temperatures
- Maintain oral hygiene
- Avoid chewing hard foods on the filled side for a few days
Dental Fillings for Children
Children often need fillings for baby teeth affected by cavities.
Best Fillings for Kids:
- Glass Ionomer: Releases fluoride and is gentle on baby teeth.
- Composite: Chosen when aesthetics matter.
Children’s fillings are quicker and usually completed in one sitting. Our team ensures a stress-free, friendly environment to help your child feel safe and comfortable.
Cost of Dental Fillings in Hyderabad / Kokapet
We understand that cost is an important factor. The price of dental fillings at Core Dental Hub depends on the material and tooth location.
General Price Range:
| Filling Type | Approximate Cost (INR) |
| Composite | ₹1,000 – ₹2,500 |
| Amalgam | ₹800 – ₹1,500 |
| Glass Ionomer | ₹900 – ₹2,000 |
| Ceramic/Porcelain | ₹4,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Gold | ₹8,000+ (rarely used) |
Insurance: If you have dental insurance, some or all of the cost may be covered. We can help check your eligibility.
Affordable Options: Core Dental Hub provides budget-friendly dental filling services in Kokapet without compromising quality.
What to Do If a Filling Fell Out
If your filling fell out, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage or infection.
Immediate Steps:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- Avoid chewing on that side.
- Cover the area with dental wax if needed.
- Avoid sugary or hot foods.
Visit us as soon as possible. A lost filling exposes the tooth to bacteria and pain. Temporary dental fillings should not be used for more than a day or two.
How to Take Care of Your Dental Filling
Do:
- Brush twice daily using a soft-bristled brush
- Floss gently around the filled tooth
- Visit the dentist for check-ups every 6 months
Avoid:
- Chewing hard items (ice, nuts, pens)
- Sticky candies or sweets
- Grinding teeth (use a night guard if needed)
When to Replace a Dental Filling
You may need to replace your dental filling if:
- You feel sharp pain while chewing
- The filling appears cracked or loose
- You notice discoloration around the edges
- There is visible wear or roughness
Regular check-ups help spot issues early.
FAQs
Q: Are tooth-colored fillings safe?
Yes, composite and ceramic fillings are safe and widely used. They are free from mercury and suitable for most patients.
Q: Can you eat after a filling?
Yes, but it’s best to wait until numbness wears off. Avoid hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours, especially with silver or temporary fillings.
Q: Do fillings prevent future decay?
Fillings repair damage but don’t stop new decay. Good oral hygiene, regular brushing, and check-ups are essential.
Book Your Appointment Today
If you’re looking for affordable and safe dental fillings in Hyderabad or Kokapet, contact Core Dental Hub. Our experienced dentists ensure pain-free, long-lasting tooth filling procedures using the best materials available.
We also provide expert dental implant in kokapet services to restore your smile with comfort and precision.