Teeth filling treatments repair cavities, chips, and small cracks by replacing damaged tooth structure with a durable material. A filling restores the shape and function of the tooth so you can bite and chew comfortably again.
Tooth fillings are used when decay creates a hole in the tooth or when minor trauma leads to a fracture. The dentist removes the damaged portion, cleans the area, and places a filling material to seal and protect the tooth from further decay.
There are several types of dental fillings, including:
- Amalgam fillings for strong back-tooth support.
- Composite resin or white fillings for a natural appearance.
- Ceramic or porcelain fillings for stain resistance and durability.
- Glass ionomer options that release fluoride.
These materials differ in strength, appearance, and cost. Some fillings, such as ceramic or gold, can last up to 20 years with proper care.
Dental fillings are part of restorative dentistry and help maintain the long-term health of the tooth. Dentists also use them to fix small chips, repair worn enamel, or support weakened areas before the damage becomes more severe.
Common terms for this treatment include:
- Tooth fillings
- Teeth fillings
- Dental restorations
Your dentist will review your tooth’s condition and recommend the best filling material for your needs.
Types of Dental Fillings and Materials
Filling Type | Key Material | Average Lifespan | Pros | Cons | Avg. Cost |
Amalgam (Silver) | Mercury + metal alloy | ~15 years | Strong, affordable, quick placement | Silver color, contains mercury, more tooth removal | $139 |
Composite (White) | Resin + glass/silica | 5–7 years | Tooth-colored, bonds to tooth, metal-free | Less durable, higher cost, technique-sensitive | $226 |
Glass Ionomer | Glass + acrylic | ~5 years | Fluoride release binds to the tooth | Weaker, short lifespan, not for chewing areas | $152 |
Gold | Gold + metals | 20–30+ years | Extremely durable, biocompatible | Very expensive, visible, 2 visits | $466 |
Ceramic / Porcelain | Porcelain or ceramic mix | ~10+ years | Tooth-colored, stain-resistant | Very expensive, 2 visits, not for heavy chewing | $976 |
Types of tooth fillings fall into two main groups: direct and indirect. Direct fillings are placed in a single visit. Indirect fillings are created in a dental lab before being cemented onto the tooth.
Direct fillings include:
Amalgam fillings
Amalgam fillings, often called mercury fillings or silver fillings, are made from a mixture of silver, tin, zinc, copper, and elemental mercury. They are the least expensive option and among the most durable. Studies show they last about 15 years on average. They remain one of the strongest choices for back teeth.
Composite resin fillings
Composite or white fillings are made from a resin base mixed with quartz, silica, or glass. Their tooth-colored appearance makes them popular for visible teeth. They bond directly to the tooth and can also repair small chips and gaps. Composite fillings last about 7 years on average, but research shows they can last 10 years or longer with good oral care and smaller restorations.
Glass ionomer fillings
Glass ionomer materials combine glass and acrylic. These tooth-colored fillings release fluoride and are used for small cavities near the gumline. They are weaker than other materials and usually last about 5 years.
Indirect fillings require one or two appointments unless CAD/CAM technology is used for same-day treatment. Inlays and onlays are common indirect restorations used when the tooth is too damaged for a simple filling but not enough to need a crown. They fit into or onto the tooth like a small custom piece.
Common materials for indirect fillings include:
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings contain gold mixed with metals such as silver, tin, copper, or palladium. They are more expensive than other options but are extremely durable, lasting 20 years or more.
Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain or ceramic fillings are tooth-colored and highly stain-resistant. They are lab-made and usually last 15 years or longer.
How to Choose the Right Dental Filling
Types of tooth fillings should be chosen based on the location of the cavity, the size of the restoration, your aesthetic needs, and your budget. Back teeth usually require stronger materials, such as amalgam or gold, because they withstand greater biting pressure. Front teeth benefit from white fillings such as composite resin or porcelain because they blend with the natural tooth color.
Aesthetic preferences play an important role. Composite resin and porcelain provide natural-looking results, making them ideal if appearance matters. If durability and cost are the primary considerations, amalgam is often the most practical option.
The size of the filling also affects material choice. Smaller cavities often work well with composite resin because it bonds directly to the tooth. Larger restorations may require stronger materials, such as porcelain, ceramic fillings, or gold, for long-term stability.
Tooth fillings should always be selected with your dentist’s guidance. A professional evaluation helps match the filling material to your tooth structure, bite pattern, and long-term oral health goals.
Consulting with your dentist ensures you choose an option that supports durability, appearance, and budget, while maintaining the overall function and health of your teeth.
How do I Know if I Need a Dental Filling?
Tooth fillings are recommended when a dentist identifies decay, damage, or symptoms that show a tooth can no longer protect itself. Dentists use a visual exam and dental X-rays to determine whether a tooth filling is necessary.
During the visual exam, the dentist looks for:
- Cracks or chips in the enamel
- Brown or black discoloration
- Visible holes or soft spots
- Plaque or tartar buildup that may indicate decay under the gumline
X-rays help confirm the exact location and depth of the cavity. They show decay between teeth, under old fillings, or in areas not visible during a standard exam.
Pain symptoms also guide the diagnosis. Common signs include:
- Sensitivity to sweets
- A dull, lingering toothache
- Pain while chewing
- Discomfort when drinking hot or cold beverages
These symptoms may appear before decay becomes visible, which is why many people ask, “Do tooth fillings hurt?” or worry about sudden tooth sensitivity after a filling procedure.
In some cases, you may have no symptoms at all. Many cavities start small and painless, and the dentist may spot them only during routine checkups. Finding decay early usually means a quicker, simpler filling for the tooth.
If exams or X-rays show a problem, your dentist will recommend a filling to stop the decay and prevent further damage.
Pros and Cons of Dental Filling Material
Amalgam Fillings
Pros
- Very durable; lasts about 15 years on average
- Works well for large cavities
- Withstands repeated chewing and heavy bite forces
Cons
- The silver color is noticeable
- Being phased out in some clinics due to aesthetics and functional concerns
- Requires removal of more healthy tooth structure
Cost
- Average: $139
- Range: $108–$256
Composite Fillings (White Fillings)
Pros
- Matches natural tooth color
- Repairs small chips and gaps without being noticeable
- Metal-free; suitable for patients with metal allergies
Cons
- Not as durable as amalgam (lasts 5–7 years)
Replacement requires a full repeat of the original procedure - May not be covered by all insurance plans
Cost
- Average: $226
- Range: $173–$439
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings combine resin and glass and release fluoride to help prevent future decay. They are commonly used for root cavities and as cements for indirect restorations.
Pros
- Tooth-colored
- Releases fluoride, helping prevent future decay
- Bonds directly to the tooth
Cons
- Not as aesthetic as composite
- Short lifespan (around 5 years)
- Not suitable for chewing surfaces like molars
Cost
- Average: $152
- Range: $116–$285
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are made from gold combined with copper and other metals. They are custom-made in a lab and placed in one or two visits. Small gold foils can be placed in a single visit.
Pros
- Extremely long-lasting; up to 30 years or more
- Highly durable and ideal for heavy chewing surfaces
- Biocompatible and resistant to corrosion
Cons
- Not tooth-colored; stands out visibly
- More expensive than most filling types
- Usually requires at least two dental visits
Cost
- Average: $466
- Range: $361–$817
Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain / Ceramic Inlays & Onlays)
Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain or a mix of ceramic, silica, and glass quartz. They are crafted in a dental lab and placed as indirect restorations.
Pros
- Tooth-colored and highly aesthetic
- It can be precisely matched to the tooth’s shape and color
- Stain-resistant
Cons
- Requires two visits
- Requires a temporary filling between visits
- Not suitable for large cavities or heavy chewing surfaces
Cost
- Average: $976
- Range: $755–$1,774
Will Getting a Filling Hurt or Require Anesthesia?
Do cavity fillings hurt? Most people feel little to no pain during a tooth filling because dentists use numbing gel or local anesthesia to keep the tooth and surrounding area comfortable. The purpose of a filling is to remove decay, stop the pain caused by the cavity, and prevent deeper infection that could lead to root canals or extractions.
The level of discomfort you feel depends on several factors.
Size and Depth of the Cavity
Small cavities cause minimal discomfort because the decay is shallow and far from the nerve. A topical numbing gel may be enough to prevent discomfort from the needle. Deep cavities require more drilling and are closer to nerve endings, so dentists usually recommend injected anesthesia. People with needle anxiety may find the injection more uncomfortable than the filling itself, but the numbness ensures a painless procedure.
Location of the Cavity
Cavities can form on smooth surfaces, in pits and fissures on the chewing surface, or near the roots. Root cavities can decay quickly because the cementum is softer than enamel. If caught early, these cavities are easy to numb and treat.
Number of Cavities
If several cavities are treated in one visit, the longer appointment may lead to jaw soreness or necessitate additional anesthesia.
About Lincolnwood Family Dental
At Lincolnwood Family Dental, we focus on providing exceptional care in a calm and welcoming environment. Our goal is to make every visit comfortable, personalized, and stress-free.
We offer a full range of services, including preventive care, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, Invisalign, crowns, dentures, kids’ dentistry, and emergency treatments. Whether you need a routine cleaning or a deep dental cleaning, our team delivers gentle and effective care tailored to your needs.
We proudly accept all PPO dental insurance plans, including Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental, Guardian, MetLife, Humana, and others. Our staff is here to help you understand your coverage and maximize your benefits so you can get the care you need with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do silver fillings last?
Silver fillings, also known as amalgam fillings, typically last 10 to 15 years. With good oral hygiene, they may last even longer.
How soon can I eat after a filling?
You can usually eat right after a filling if you received a composite (white) filling. For silver fillings, wait at least 2 to 3 hours for the material to harden fully.
Why do I have tooth sensitivity after a filling?
Tooth sensitivity after filling procedures is common. It can happen due to nerve irritation, bite adjustment issues, or the depth of the cavity. Sensitivity usually improves within a few days to two weeks.
Are fillings permanent?
No, fillings are not permanent. Their lifespan depends on the material, location, and oral habits. Most fillings last 5 to 20 years before needing replacement.
Do cavity fillings hurt?
Most cavity fillings do not hurt because dentists use local anesthesia to numb the tooth. You may feel pressure or vibration, but not pain, during the procedure.
