What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth damaged by decay (cavities), cracks, or wear. When a tooth develops a cavity, the dentist removes the decayed portion and fills the space with a durable material to restore the tooth’s structure, function, and appearance. At Putramahkota Dental Clinic in Mahkota Cheras Kajang, we use high-quality filling materials to ensure your teeth are restored properly and last for years.
A dental filling is essentially a “patch” for your tooth that prevents further decay and restores its strength.
Dental filling procedure of filling a tooth
Why Do You Need Dental Fillings?
Common Reasons for Fillings
1. Cavities (Tooth Decay)
•Most common reason for fillings
•Caused by bacteria and acid
•Cavities spread if left untreated
•Filling stops the decay process
2. Cracked or Broken Teeth
•Accidents or trauma
•Chewing hard foods
•Teeth grinding (bruxism)
•Filling restores tooth structure
3. Worn Teeth
•Natural wear from age
•Aggressive brushing
•Acid erosion
•Filling builds up worn areas
4. Gaps Between Teeth
•Spacing issues
•Cosmetic concerns
•Filling can close small gaps
Benefits of Getting a Filling
✅ Stops Decay – Prevents cavity from spreading
✅ Restores Function – Tooth works normally again
✅ Improves Appearance – Tooth looks natural
✅ Prevents Extraction – Saves your natural tooth
✅ Relieves Pain – Stops sensitivity and discomfort
✅ Cost-Effective – Much cheaper than root canal or crown
✅ Quick Procedure – Usually completed in one visit
✅ Durable – Lasts 5-20 years depending on material
Types of Dental Fillings
1. Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)
Amalgam is a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. It’s been used for over 150 years.
Composition: 50% mercury + 35% silver + 15% tin/copper
Advantages:
✅ Very durable (10-20+ years)
✅ Affordable
✅ Strong and long-lasting
✅ Good for large cavities
✅ Resistant to wear
Disadvantages:
❌ Visible (silver/dark color)
❌ Requires more tooth removal
❌ Can cause tooth discoloration
❌ Aesthetic concerns
❌ Mercury content concerns (though considered safe)
Durability: 10-20+ years
Best For: Back teeth, large cavities, budget-conscious patients
2. Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored)
Composite is a plastic resin mixed with glass particles. It’s bonded directly to the tooth.
Composition: Resin + glass particles + bonding agent
Advantages:
✅ Tooth-colored (invisible)
✅ Aesthetic appearance
✅ Bonds to tooth structure
✅ Requires less tooth removal
✅ Good for front and back teeth
✅ No mercury concerns
Disadvantages:
❌ Less durable (5-10 years)
❌ More expensive than amalgam
❌ Can stain over time
❌ Longer appointment time
❌ Not ideal for very large cavities
Durability: 5-10 years
Best For: Front teeth, visible areas, aesthetic preference
3. Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer is a mixture of glass powder and acrylic acid. It releases fluoride to help prevent decay.
Composition: Glass powder + acrylic acid + fluoride
Advantages:
✅ Releases fluoride (cavity prevention)
✅ Tooth-colored
✅ Good biocompatibility
✅ Affordable
✅ Good for children
Disadvantages:
❌ Less durable (3-5 years)
❌ Weaker than composite
❌ Can wear quickly
❌ Not ideal for high-stress areas
❌ Can discolor
Durability: 3-5 years
Best For: Primary (baby) teeth, small cavities, low-stress areas
4. Ceramic/Porcelain Fillings (Inlays/Onlays)
Custom-made ceramic restorations for larger cavities.
Composition: Porcelain or ceramic material
Advantages:
✅ Very aesthetic
✅ Very durable (10-15+ years)
✅ Stain-resistant
✅ Strong and stable
✅ Excellent appearance
Disadvantages:
❌ Most expensive
❌ Requires multiple visits
❌ Requires tooth preparation
❌ Can break if dropped
❌ Longer treatment time
Durability: 10-15+ years
Best For: Large cavities, visible teeth, premium option
Different types of fillings
Filling Comparison Table
| Type | Durability | Appearance | Best For |
| Amalgam | 10-20+ years | Visible (silver) | Back teeth, budget |
| Composite | 5-10 years | Tooth-colored | Front teeth, visible |
| Glass Ionomer | 3-5 years | Tooth-colored | Baby teeth, small |
| Ceramic | 10-15+ years | Very aesthetic | Large cavities, premium |
The Dental Filling Procedure
Step-by-Step Process (30-60 minutes)
Step 1: Examination (5 minutes)
•Dentist examines the cavity
•Takes X-rays if needed
•Determines filling type
Step 2: Anesthesia (5 minutes)
•Local anesthetic applied
•Numbs the tooth and surrounding area
•You won’t feel pain (only pressure)
Step 3: Cavity Removal (10-15 minutes)
•Dentist removes decayed portion
•Uses drill or laser
•Cleans the cavity thoroughly
Step 4: Filling Application (10-15 minutes)
•Dentist applies filling material
•For composite: hardens with UV light
•For amalgam: sets naturally
Step 5: Shaping and Polishing (5-10 minutes)
•Dentist shapes filling to match tooth
•Polishes for smooth surface
•Checks bite alignment
Step 6: Final Check (5 minutes)
•Verifies filling is secure
•Checks for any issues
•Provides aftercare instructions
Before and after filling or cavity treatment
Filling Aftercare & Maintenance
Immediately After Filling
✅ Avoid eating for 1-2 hours (let anesthetic wear off)
✅ Don’t chew on the filled tooth initially
✅ Avoid hard foods for 24 hours
✅ Avoid sticky foods that could dislodge filling
✅ Take pain relief if needed (usually not necessary)
Long-Term Care
✅ Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
✅ Floss daily to prevent decay around filling
✅ Avoid hard foods (nuts, candy, ice)
✅ Avoid acidic drinks (soda, citrus juice)
✅ Regular check-ups every 6 months
✅ Professional cleaning annually
✅ Avoid teeth grinding (wear night guard if needed)
What NOT to Do
❌ Don’t chew on hard objects
❌ Don’t use teeth as tools
❌ Don’t ignore pain or sensitivity
❌ Don’t skip dental appointments
❌ Don’t neglect oral hygiene
❌ Don’t consume excessive acidic foods/drinks
How Long Do Fillings Last?
| Filling Type | Lifespan | Factors Affecting Durability |
| Amalgam | 10-20+ years | Chewing habits, oral hygiene, grinding |
| Composite | 5-10 years | Material quality, tooth location, care |
| Glass Ionomer | 3-5 years | Stress on tooth, oral hygiene |
| Ceramic | 10-15+ years | Chewing habits, trauma |
Factors that reduce filling lifespan:
•Poor oral hygiene
•Teeth grinding
•Chewing hard foods
•Acidic diet
•Trauma or injury
•Poor filling placement
Common Filling Problems & Solutions
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
| Filling falls out | Decay or poor bond | Replace filling |
| Sensitivity after filling | Irritated nerve | Usually resolves in days |
| Filling is loose | Wear or decay | Replace filling |
| Discoloration around filling | Secondary decay | Check for new cavity |
| Filling is cracked | Wear or trauma | Replace filling |
| Pain when biting | Filling too high | Adjust filling |
| Allergic reaction | Material sensitivity | Use different material |
| Filling stains | Surface staining | Professional cleaning |
Common Filling Questions
Q: Does getting a filling hurt?
A: No, local anesthetic numbs the area. You’ll feel pressure but not pain.
Q: How long does a filling take?
A: Usually 30-60 minutes depending on cavity size and filling type.
Q: Can I eat after a filling?
A: Wait 1-2 hours for anesthetic to wear off, then avoid hard foods for 24 hours.
Q: Is sensitivity after filling normal?
A: Yes, mild sensitivity is normal and usually resolves within a few days.
Q: Can I replace an old filling?
A: Yes, old fillings can be replaced if they’re worn or decayed.
Q: Which filling type is best?
A: Composite is best for aesthetics. Amalgam is best for durability. Choose based on your needs.
Q: Do fillings need to be replaced?
A: Yes, eventually. Amalgam lasts 10-20+ years. Composite lasts 5-10 years.
Q: Can I get a filling if I’m pregnant?
A: Yes, emergency fillings are safe. Elective fillings are usually postponed until after pregnancy.
Q: Are amalgam fillings safe?
A: Yes, the FDA considers amalgam safe despite mercury content.
Q: Can a filling prevent future cavities?
A: No, but good oral hygiene and regular check-ups prevent new cavities.
Why Choose Putramahkota Dental Clinic for Fillings?
✅ Multiple Filling Options – Choose material that fits your needs
✅ Expert Dentists – Experienced in all filling types
✅ Quality Materials – High-quality, durable materials
✅ Affordable Pricing – Competitive rates in Mahkota Cheras
✅ Quick Procedure – Usually completed in one visit
✅ Painless Process – Proper anesthesia ensures comfort
✅ Natural Results – Tooth-colored fillings look natural
✅ Long-Lasting – Fillings built to last
Prevent Cavities Before You Need Fillings
Prevention Tips:
•✅ Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
•✅ Floss daily
•✅ Limit sugary foods and drinks
•✅ Drink water instead of soda
•✅ Visit dentist every 6 months
•✅ Get professional cleanings
•✅ Use fluoride mouthwash
•✅ Chew sugar-free gum
Ready for Your Filling?
If you have a cavity or damaged tooth, don’t wait. Early treatment prevents complications and saves money.
Contact Putramahkota Dental Clinic in Mahkota Cheras Kajang:
📞 Phone: +60164892387 / 03-90114487
💬 WhatsApp: +60164892387
📍 Address: 32A, Jalan Temenggung 7/9, Bandar Mahkota Cheras, 43200 Cheras, Selangor
🌐 Website: putramahkotadentalclinic.com
🕐 Hours: 7 Days a Week
Book Your Filling Appointment Now! We’ll restore your tooth and get you back to smiling.