Dental Fillings

What Is Dental Fillings?

A dental filling restores a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape. After removing the decayed portion, the dentist fills the space with a restorative material — most commonly tooth-colored composite resin today, though amalgam (silver) and ceramic options also exist. Modern fillings are durable, comfortable, and virtually invisible.

How It Works

The dentist numbs the area with local anesthesia, removes the decay with a drill or laser, shapes the cavity, and places the filling material in layers. Composite resin is hardened with a curing light. The bite is checked and adjusted, and the whole process typically takes 30–60 minutes per tooth.

Key Benefits

• Stops decay from spreading deeper into the tooth
• Tooth-colored composite matches your natural shade
• Most fillings are completed in a single appointment
• Preserves maximum healthy tooth structure
• Long-lasting — composite fillings last 7–10+ years with proper care

Frequently Asked Questions