Tooth Fillings
Stop Decay Before It Spreads
Cavities are one of the most common dental issues, but they are also one of the easiest to treat when caught early. A tooth filling is a simple restorative procedure used to repair minor to moderate tooth damage caused by decay. At Spray Lake Dental, we use high-quality materials to fill the cavity, restore the tooth's shape, and prevent bacteria from causing further harm. Our goal is to help you keep your natural teeth strong and healthy for as long as possible. We prioritize your comfort and use modern techniques to ensure your experience is stress-free.
How Do I Know If I Have a Cavity?
Not all cavities cause pain immediately. However, there are common warning signs that indicate you should visit us for an exam.
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Tooth Sensitivity: sudden pain when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods.
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Visible Holes or Pits: dark spots or small openings in your tooth enamel.
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Sharp Pain: discomfort when biting down or chewing.
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Food Getting Stuck: frequently catching food in a specific area between teeth.
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Rough Edges: feeling a jagged or chipped area with your tongue.
Modern Materials for a Seamless Smile
We primarily offer Composite Resin (White Fillings) because they offer the best balance of durability and aesthetics.
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Natural Appearance: Composite fillings are colour-matched to blend perfectly with your surrounding teeth, making them virtually invisible.
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Strong Bond: The material bonds directly to the tooth structure, which often allows us to preserve more of your natural tooth compared to older methods.
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Versatility: They can be used for cavities as well as to repair chipped or worn front teeth.
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Note: We can also discuss other materials like porcelain or gold for specific situations where extra strength is required.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Comfort First
We begin by freezing the area with a local anesthetic so you will not feel any pain during the procedure.
Removing Decay
The dentist gently removes the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth to ensure a clean foundation.
Placing the Filling
We apply the filling material in layers, shaping it to match the natural contours of your tooth.
Curing and Polishing
A special light is used to harden the material instantly. We then polish the tooth so it feels smooth and bites correctly.
Common Questions
We know you might have questions about your visit, and we believe clarity is key to comfort. Whether you’re curious about insurance or what happens during an exam, our team is here to help you feel fully prepared for your appointment.
How soon can I eat after getting a filling?
With modern white (composite) fillings, you can eat as soon as the freezing wears off. The material is hardened instantly with a special curing light before you leave our chair. However, we recommend waiting until the anesthesia is gone so you do not accidentally bite your lip, tongue, or cheek while chewing. Avoid very hot or cold foods for the first 24 hours if your tooth feels sensitive
Why does my tooth feel sensitive after a filling?
It is completely normal to experience some mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods for a few days after your appointment. This happens because the nerve inside your tooth can get slightly irritated during the decay removal process. This sensitivity usually fades on its own within a week. If you feel sharp pain when biting down that does not go away, give us a call—your bite might just need a quick adjustment.
How do I know if I need a filling vs. a root canal?
A filling is used when the decay is still near the surface (enamel or dentin). If the cavity has gone deep enough to infect the nerve (pulp) inside the tooth, a filling will not be enough to stop the pain or infection, and a root canal will be needed. This is why we always encourage early treatment—catching a cavity early keeps the procedure simple, less invasive, and more affordable.
How long do white fillings last?
While no dental restoration lasts forever, modern composite fillings are very durable. On average, they last between 7 to 10 years, but they can last much longer with excellent oral hygiene. Factors like grinding your teeth (bruxism) or chewing on hard objects (like ice or pens) can shorten their lifespan. We check the integrity of your fillings at every checkup to ensure they are still protecting your tooth.
Are white fillings safe?
Yes, composite resin fillings are safe and widely used across North America. They are a popular choice because they bond directly to your tooth structure, allowing us to preserve more of your natural tooth compared to older metal fillings. Plus, they are free of mercury, which is a concern for some patients with traditional silver (amalgam) fillings.
