Reviewed by Dr. Wael Sadek, DDS·[date pending review]
What is a filling?
A filling repairs a tooth that has a cavity or a small break. The dentist removes the decayed or damaged part of the tooth, cleans the area, and fills the space with a material that seals it. This stops the decay from growing and lets you chew normally again.
Cavities start in the hard outer layer of the tooth, called tooth enamel. Small cavities often cause no pain at all. If they are not treated, they can grow deeper into the tooth. A deep cavity may need a larger repair, such as a dental crown or a root canal.
Signs you may need a filling
- A tooth is sensitive to sweets, hot drinks, or cold drinks.
- It hurts when you bite down on a certain tooth.
- You see a hole, a pit, or a dark spot on a tooth.
- Food keeps getting stuck in the same place.
- A tooth has a rough edge or a small chipped piece.
- An old filling feels loose, cracked, or worn.
Some cavities show no signs at all. They are often found at a routine checkup, which is one reason regular exams help.
What happens at the visit
- Exam. Dr. Sadek looks at the tooth. He may use digital imaging to see how deep the cavity goes.
- Numbing. The area around the tooth is numbed so you feel pressure, not sharp pain, while he works.
- Removing decay. The soft, decayed part of the tooth is removed and the space is cleaned.
- Filling. The space is filled with a material chosen for that tooth. Filling materials offered: [OFFICE TO CONFIRM: filling materials offered]. The dentist will explain the choices that fit your tooth.
- Shaping and bite check. The filling is shaped and polished. You bite down so he can make sure your teeth meet the right way.
After your filling
Numbness usually wears off within a few hours. Until it does, avoid hot drinks and try not to chew on that side, so you do not bite your cheek or tongue. Some sensitivity to cold or pressure for a few days is common and usually fades on its own.
Call us if your bite feels high or uneven, if pain gets worse instead of better, or if sensitivity lasts more than a couple of weeks. If you have a toothache, call as early in the day as you can and the front desk will look for the soonest time open.
If you have facial swelling that spreads toward your eye or neck, a fever, or trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911 or go to an emergency room.
Cost factors
The cost of a filling depends on the tooth, how large the cavity is, how many sides of the tooth are involved, the material used, and your insurance plan. We accept dental insurance, so call to check whether we work with your plan. CareCredit can spread larger treatment into monthly payments. We also take cards and tap-to-pay. Ask for an estimate before treatment so there are no surprises.
Why families choose our office
Americana Family Dental is a family practice in Americana Plaza in Orlando, caring for kids, teens, adults, and grandparents. Dr. Wael Sadek speaks English and Arabic. He shows you what he sees, explains whether a tooth needs a filling now or can be watched, and answers your questions in plain words. Outcomes vary from tooth to tooth, and he will explain your options after an exam.
The office has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, and restroom. We are open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM, and appointments are recommended. Call (407) 850-0133.
Questions patients ask
Does getting a filling hurt?
The area is numbed before the dentist starts, so most people feel pressure and vibration rather than sharp pain. Your lip and tongue may stay numb for a few hours afterward. Some sensitivity for a few days is common. Tell us if you feel discomfort during the visit so we can pause.
How long does a filling last?
It depends on the size of the filling, the material, where it is in your mouth, and how you care for your teeth. Grinding, chewing ice, and new decay around the edges can shorten its life. Regular checkups let the dentist spot a worn filling before it fails.
Can a cavity go away on its own?
A cavity that has made a hole in the tooth cannot heal on its own. Very early weak spots in the enamel can sometimes harden again with fluoride and good home care. The dentist will tell you which kind you have and whether it can be watched or needs a filling.
What should I do if I have a toothache?
Call as early in the day as you can and the front desk will look for the soonest time open. Rinse with warm water and floss gently to remove stuck food. If you have facial swelling spreading toward your eye or neck, fever, or trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911.
