A tooth filling is where material (such as porcelain inlay/onlay or composite) is inserted into a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its original shape and function. This can be either a dental inlay (fills centre of tooth) or onlay (more extensive than an inlay and can cover up to the entire biting surface of a tooth).

Fillings are most commonly used to prevent further damage to a tooth when decay is present. By removing the bacteria and closing the affected area off, no further tooth decay can occur.

The main reasons that you might need a filling are due to tooth decay causing cavities, or if a tooth is cracked or chipped. Due to your lifestyle or eating/ drinking habits your teeth may get worn down over time or small holes may develop. If these cavities are left untreated, they will cause further damage to your tooth and may ultimately result in a root canal. To avoid this situation, your dentist will plug the hole with a dental material, to ensure the tooth does not deteriorate further, or expose the tooth root.

Simply put you will not feel anything during the dental filling procedure, because our dentist will completely numb your mouth so you don't feel any discomfort.

You need a filling if you have a cavity. Common signs of cavities are sensitive teeth, dark spots on a tooth, or a visible hole on your tooth. It can be hard to spot cavities on your own, which is why routine six-month dental visits are so important. Dentists can find cavities when they are still small, which makes them easier to treat with a filling.
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