Dental Fillings In Hamilton

Restore your smile with durable, natural-looking solutions for cavities and tooth damage.

Cavity Treatment

Nearly all patients will receive a cavity at some point in their lifetime. To treat a cavity, dentists use a procedure called a dental filling. Generally, it is a painless and quick procedure. Your filling works to prevent additional tooth decay and allows the affected tooth to function as it normally would.

Types Of Dental Fillings

Here are common types of dental fillings:

Silver-Coloured Fillings: Made from a metal mixture of mercury, tin, silver, and copper.
Gold Fillings: A durable but more expensive option, combining gold, copper, and other metals.
White Fillings (Composites): A natural-looking mix of glass or quartz particles and acrylic resin.
Glass Ionomer Fillings: Tooth-coloured and made from acrylic and fluoride-containing glass, often used for children’s teeth.
Porcelain Fillings: Custom-made in a lab for a natural appearance, similar to gold fillings in durability.

How Quickly Can a Filling Be Completed?

Most fillings take under an hour, with simple fillings completed in as little as 20 minutes. Larger fillings or multiple procedures may require more time or an additional visit, depending on the material chosen.

The process begins with an exam and X-rays to assess the cavity. Your dentist will numb the area (if needed) and remove decay with a drill, laser, or air abrasion. The cavity is cleaned, filled, and often hardened with a special light. Finally, the tooth is polished, and your bite is adjusted.

After the procedure, slight sensitivity is normal. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods for 1-2 days as your tooth adjusts.

Dental Fillings for a Child

Children often experience cavities, even with good oral hygiene. Fillings for children are quick, but younger children may require anesthesia if they have difficulty sitting still, which can extend the appointment. Discuss your child’s needs and expected treatment time with your dentist.

Recovering After a Dental Filling

Fillings typically heal quickly with minimal complications. To reduce sensitivity:

- Chew on the opposite side for two days.

- Gently brush and floss around the filling.

- Avoid hot, cold, or acidic foods.

- Use desensitizing toothpaste or ask about anti-inflammatory options.

If sensitivity or misalignment persists, contact your dentist for adjustments.

Pain Following a Dental Filling

Mild discomfort is normal after a filling and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or an ice pack. Anesthesia wears off within 2-7 hours, and nerves may feel slightly sensitive as they recover. Avoid acidic, sticky, or cold foods for a day or two to ensure proper healing.

How to Know If You Need a Dental Filling

Routine checkups allow early detection of cavities for less invasive treatment. Signs of a cavity include:

- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugary foods.

- Persistent tooth discomfort.

- A visible hole, pit, or significant stain on a tooth.

If you notice these symptoms, schedule an appointment for evaluation and timely care.

If you suspect a cavity, schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. They will assess your tooth and determine if a filling or another treatment is needed.

Your trusted Hamilton dentist near you!

We can’t wait to welcome you! Call us at (905) 388-8888 or complete the form below to book your appointment. We’ll do our best to fit your schedule. Please arrive 15 minutes early for your visit.