What is Dental Filling? How Is It Done?

After root canal treatment, a filling material is also needed to close the remaining space inside the tooth. In this way, the tooth can be saved and regain its former function. We will also touch on in which situations fillings are applied, what affects filling prices, and other commonly asked questions. But first, let’s take a closer look at how this procedure is performed.

How Is a Dental Filling Performed?

Before moving on to the filling stage, the decayed area of the tooth must be cleaned. Once the tooth has been cleared of decay and any remaining debris, the dental filling phase can begin. For this procedure, local anesthesia is administered to the patient. The area to be treated is completely numbed. This ensures that the patient does not feel pain or discomfort during the filling. Regardless of which tooth is being treated, the procedure can be completed quite comfortably from the patient’s perspective.

Of course, as part of the treatment, the filling must be shaped in a way that is compatible with the form and anatomy of the tooth. Depending on the type of filling material used, a special curing light or device may be used to harden the material more quickly. After the filling is completed, the patient is asked to open and close their mouth or move it gently. In this way, it can be checked whether there is any excess or protrusion that might disturb the patient after the filling. If there is a high spot or irregularity, the dentist smooths that area. Once these adjustments are made, the filling procedure is complete and the patient can immediately return to daily life.

What Are the Types of Dental Fillings?

As mentioned earlier, many different materials can now be used as dental fillings. The most preferred materials are generally those that look the most natural. The main types of fillings can be listed as follows:

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings, commonly known as “silver fillings”, are no longer among the most frequently chosen options. These materials are prepared by combining different metals such as mercury, silver, tin and copper. They are used more often in the back teeth because they are highly resistant to chewing forces and pressure. Their high strength under biting and chewing is a major advantage. However, their grayish metallic appearance reduces their popularity, especially in visible areas.

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are among the types of dental fillings that can be completed in a single session. Their most important feature is that they are the same color as the tooth. This allows them to provide a very natural appearance and is one of the main reasons they are widely preferred. They can be used not only to treat decayed teeth but also to repair fractured or cracked teeth. One of the advantages of composite fillings is that their cost is relatively affordable. However, over time, there is a possibility of wear or fracture. Their lifespan varies from patient to patient but is generally between 3 and 10 years.

Porcelain Fillings

Porcelain fillings are also among the most commonly preferred filling types. The main advantages are that they do not change color over time and are resistant to staining. As long as proper oral hygiene is maintained, they can retain their color for many years. When several procedures are required on the same tooth, porcelain fillings can safely be used. These fillings are prepared in a laboratory in accordance with the shape of the tooth and then bonded onto the tooth using special adhesives. In recent years, these fillings are also referred to as inlay or onlay restorations.

How Much Does a Dental Filling Cost?

Naturally, patients often want to know about dental filling prices. However, it would be misleading to give a fixed figure. The cost of a filling varies depending on many factors, such as which tooth is being treated and which filling material is used. For this reason, it is not appropriate to quote a standard price range. The dentist’s experience and the quality of the materials used also influence the cost. More important than the price is that the filling procedure is carried out correctly. This ensures that the restored tooth regains its full function and can be used comfortably for a long time.

Is There Pain After a Dental Filling?

Sometimes patients experience severe pain due to the decay before treatment and wonder whether they will feel pain during the filling procedure. First of all, we can say that no pain, soreness, or cramping is felt during the procedure. This is because local anesthesia is applied before starting the filling and the area is completely numbed. Therefore, the patient does not feel pain while the tooth is being treated.

After the filling is completed and the effect of the anesthesia wears off, mild pain may occur. In most cases, this discomfort completely disappears by the next day. Depending on the person’s pain threshold, it is also possible that no pain at all is felt after the filling. Mild sensitivity may also be present, but this usually resolves on its own within 1 to 2 days. For deep fillings, this sensitivity period may extend to 4–6 weeks. If you experience intense pain, pain that increases over time, or pain that does not subside despite a long time having passed after the procedure, you should consult your dentist.

In Which Situations Is a Dental Filling Performed?

The most common reason for performing a dental filling is to fill the space that remains after decay has been cleaned from a tooth. However, fractures or cracks can also occur due to trauma or biting hard objects. In such cases, filling materials are used to restore the tooth. If a previously placed filling falls out or is damaged, the tooth may need to be refilled.

How Long Does a Dental Filling Take?

It is not possible to give an exact time for how long a dental filling will take. If root canal treatment is required before the filling, the overall treatment will naturally take longer. If only a crack or small fracture is being repaired, the procedure can be completed in a shorter time. The number of teeth that need fillings, the condition of the teeth and their location in the mouth all affect the duration. The type of filling material chosen is another factor that can influence the total treatment time. Before starting, your dentist will give you an estimate of how long the procedure is likely to take. You can write any questions you may have about this topic in the comments section.