If you are looking for ways to fix your teeth from cavities, fillings may help. Here is a guide to dental fillings to explain everything you need to know.

A Guide to Pediatric Dental Fillings

There are no major risks you need to be conscious of after receiving a filling. You may experience some sensitivity or pain but this should subside quickly. Your fillings should not interfere with your bite (how your teeth align with each other). If you can notice your filling then you will likely need to revisit your dentist to have it adjusted.

You will be able to eat immediately after most fillings. Make sure you follow your dentist's instructions depending on the type of filling you receive. 

Good oral hygiene is essential to maintaining your fillings and your teeth. It is likely that poor oral hygiene was a factor in you needing fillings. Speak to your dentist about developing good oral hygiene routines and look for products specifically for sensitive teeth. 

Types of Cavity Fillings

You might be surprised by the number of types of fillings you can get. All of them have pros and cons, vary in color and strength, and have specific care needs. You will want to discuss your options with your dentist before you get your fillings. 

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings are not the most modern type of filling but they are still very common and have been used for more than a century and are the most researched. This means you know what you are getting.

Amalgam fillings are a combination of silver, mercury, and other metals. These filings are very strong and are ideal for filling cavities in the molars, where the most chewing takes place. 

As these fillings are metallic they are not tooth-colored or easily disguised and can be noticeable when you smile or laugh. They are the least expensive which can be a big benefit. 

Composite Fillings

These fillings are made of a combination of glass or quartz filler and can be colored to match the color of your teeth. These are also very durable and are best used for small to medium-sized fillings. They would not often be used on molars. 

Metal Fillings

Metal fillings really come down to personal preference. Some people like their appearance while others strongly dislike it. Gold and Silver fillings are the most common metals used. Gold can be quite expensive however some people prefer the appearance of gold to silver. Metal fillings are more durable than composite fillings and can last up to 15 years. 

Ceramic Fillings

Ceramic fillings are usually made of porcelain and are popular because they can be made to match the color of your teeth and will not show as many stains over time as composite fillings. They are much more expensive and can cost as much as gold fillings. 

Glass Ionomer Fillings



This filling is made from a blend of acrylic and glass and is used to create a cavity filling that releases fluoride and protects your teeth. These filings are less durable and you can expect to replace them in five years.

When to Replace a Cavity Filling

Cavity fillings usually last for many, many years before you need to worry about replacing them. The type of filling you receive will be the primary factor in determining when this is needed. 

If you also clench or grind your teeth you may need to replace them sooner. You should keep your regular checkups with your dentist and he or she will inspect your fillings to ensure they are in good order and will tell you when they need to be replaced. 

This is especially important because your dentist will want to ensure no additional tooth decay develops around the filling. If tooth decay continues unaddressed you may need a more serious procedure to repair or replace that tooth. 

If you do notice signs of wear and tear on your fillings, like worn areas or cracks, visit your dentist as soon as possible to replace them. Not having them replaced will cause further damage to the filling and the tooth with the filling. This is going to be more complex and expensive than a simple filling replacement. 

Potential Problems With Dental Fillings

There are two main issues you need to be aware of, infection and damage. 

A cavity filling can sometimes pull away from the tooth, even slightly. This creates a space that is very difficult to keep clean and where bacteria will grow and cause additional tooth decay. 

If you notice a space between your filling and your tooth, or if you notice you have an onset of bad breath or tooth pain visit your dentist as soon as possible.



Cavity fillings can break, crack, or fall out. This most often occurs during chewing but can also happen if you are hit in the mouth during sport or an accident for instance. If you notice you have damage to your cavity or notice an irritation at the tooth with the filling, visit your dentist. 

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are among the most common dental procedures you can have and are very straightforward and mostly painless. If you follow our guide you will know all there is to the procedure, the type of filling you may get, and how to care for your filling correctly. For more information on dental fillings schedule an appointment here.