Signs You May Have a Cavity
- ✓Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet food and drinks
- ✓A visible hole, pit, or dark spot on a tooth
- ✓Mild to moderate pain when chewing
- ✓Food frequently getting stuck in one spot
- ✓A rough patch you can feel with your tongue
- ✓No symptoms at all — many cavities are found only on X-ray during a routine check-up
Types of Fillings
Your dentist will recommend a filling material based on the cavity's location and size, and your budget.
- ✓Composite (tooth-coloured) resin — most common, blends with natural tooth colour
- ✓Glass ionomer cement (GIC) — often used for children or smaller cavities
- ✓Amalgam (silver) — durable and cost-effective, mainly used for back teeth
- ✓Ceramic/porcelain inlays — for larger cavities, more durable but costlier
The Filling Procedure
A simple filling is usually a single, quick visit. The dentist numbs the area, removes the decayed portion of the tooth with a drill, cleans the cavity, and fills it with the chosen material, then shapes and polishes it to match your bite. Most fillings take 20 to 40 minutes per tooth.
Preventing Future Cavities
- ✓Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- ✓Floss daily to clean between teeth where a brush can't reach
- ✓Limit frequent snacking on sugary or starchy foods
- ✓Visit your dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning
- ✓Consider dental sealants for children's back teeth
Frequently Asked Questions
Does getting a filling hurt?
The area is numbed with local anaesthesia before the procedure, so you shouldn't feel pain during the filling itself. Mild sensitivity for a day or two afterward is normal.
How long do fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last 5 to 10 years, while amalgam fillings can last 10 to 15 years or more with good oral hygiene. Fillings can wear down or chip over time and may need replacement.
Can a cavity heal on its own without a filling?
No. Once the enamel has broken down into an actual cavity, it cannot heal itself and will only get larger over time. Only very early-stage demineralization (before an actual cavity forms) can sometimes be reversed with fluoride treatment.