What is a dental filling? 
 
A filling is a way to restore a decayed tooth to bring it back to its normal shape and function. When a dentist in Las Vegas recommends a dental filling, first he/she will remove the decayed area, clean it up, and then fill the clean area with a filling material. 
 

What is a dental filling made of? 
 
Dental fillings can be made out of different materials. Your dentist will suggest which material is best for you based on the extent of the decay, where the filling is needed, and if you have any allergies to any materials. 


Different materials can include: 

​Amalgam (silver) fillings are resistant to wear and relatively inexpensive, and are made from a combination of metals that include mercury, silver, tin, and copper. However, due to their dark color, they are more noticeable than composite restorations and are not usually used in very visible areas, such as front teeth. 
Composite (Tooth-Colored) resins are a mixture of glass or quartz filler that provide good durability and resistance to fracture. They are matched to be the same color as your teeth and, therefore, are used where a natural appearance is desired. The ingredients are mixed and placed directly into the cavity, where they harden with a special light. On multiple occasions, they are also used where the cavity is very large to protect the tooth from fracturing. 

Amalgam Filling

Composite (tooth color) Filling

​How do I know if I need a filling? 
 
When you see your dentist near by for a check up, he/she will evaluate the surface of each tooth for decay. Anything that looks abnormal will then be closely checked with special instruments. Only your dentist can detect whether you have a cavity that needs to be filled. 
 
Dental Filling Options: 
 
When it comes to having a cavity filled, it’s important to know that you have the right to decide, after consultation with your dentist, what treatments and materials are used for your dental care. Your dentist considers materials to use on an individualized basis, taking into account the size and location of your cavity. Cosmetic considerations, how long the filling could last, insurance coverage, and out of pocket costs are some other factors you may want to consider. The ADA encourages you to talk with your dentist so that together you may choose the material that’s right for you. 

How is a filling procedure done?[2]  ​

• Topical gel – Usually placed with a cotton roll or Q-tip to numb the gums where local anesthetic has to be used to minimize discomfort.  
• Local anesthesia – You may be given local anesthesia to desensitize the tooth for the procedure. 
• Tooth decay removal – Then the dentist will clean out the area using a handpiece to remove any decay.  
• After the dentist removes the decay. Placing new filling – Depending on the choice made to fill the opening, various lining will be placed followed by the filling material. 
• Polishing – After the filling has been placed, it is polished with different tools to increase its quality and longevity.

---

How do I care for a new filling?[1] 

 

​1) Find out how long your filling takes to set up. ​
We use different types of filling materials, the main ones are Amalgam (Silver) or Composite (Tooth-Colored).  

•  Amalgam takes 24 to 48 hrs. to set. We recommend our patients waiting one hour after the procedure to eat or drink anything, and to wait 24 hours before chewing solid foods where the filling was done. 

​

•  ​Composite is a tooth-colored material and hardens instantly when exposed to blue light. Therefore, if you have just had a composite filling, you can eat and drink right after the procedure. 

 

​2) Avoid food and beverages until the anesthetic wears off.
Numbness lasts differently depending on an individual’s metabolism, so it may be difficult to gauge the temperature when drinking a cold beverage and you might end up biting the inside of your cheek, tongue or lip. Drink something warm for the anesthetic to wear off faster (gauge the temperature of your drink with the tip of your finger).  

If you can’t wait to eat or drink, try soft foods like yogurt or applesauce and simple beverages like water. Chew using the side of your mouth opposite the filling to help ensure that you don’t injure yourself or damage the filling. 

 

3) Avoid very hot and very cold foods and beverages. 

Your teeth and the filling will likely be sensitive for a few days after the procedure. Avoid consuming foods and beverages that are very hot or very cold to control sensitivity and pain, and that could also possibly damage your filling. ​ 4) ​Avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods. Try to avoid foods that are hard, chewy, or sticky for a few days after a filling. Foods such as candies, granola bars, and gum can cause potential problems, including pulling out the filling.