Getting a Filling Doesn’t Have to Be a Big Deal - Here’s What to Expect

Let’s be honest: nobody jumps for joy when they find out they need a dental filling. 

Maybe you hear “filling” and picture a big, noisy drill or imagine lying there in terror, clutching the armrests like it’s an amusement park ride you didn’t sign up for.

But the truth is, dental fillings are really routine, straightforward, and usually over before you finish debating what to have for dinner. 

As a dentist in Amherst, NY, I see people all the time who are surprised at how easy it actually is.

This guide is for anyone wondering what happens during a dental filling. My goal? Help you know exactly what to expect so you can walk in with confidence (or at least without dread).

What Are Dental Fillings?

Let’s start simple. A dental filling is material we use to fill in a hole in your tooth (a cavity) after removing decay. It restores the tooth’s shape and function while keeping bacteria out.

Basically, think of it as patching a pothole in your tooth before it becomes a sinkhole.

Types of Dental Fillings

There isn’t just one type of filling material. We like options.

Amalgam – The classic silver-colored filling. Super durable, not so subtle on front teeth.

Composite Resin – Tooth-colored and great for front teeth or visible areas. Blends in nicely.

Ceramic – Strong, natural-looking, stain-resistant. Basically the fancy option.

Gold – The Rolls Royce of fillings. Very durable.

Glass Ionomer – Good for kids’ teeth or places that aren’t under big chewing forces. Releases fluoride to help prevent future decay.

We’ll discuss the options with you based on the location of your cavity, your budget, and your personal style preferences.

What To Expect At Your Dental Filling Appointment

If you have a dental filling appointment coming up, knowing what to expect will definitely put you at ease. 

Here’s how it goes.

The Initial Examination

First, we make sure you actually need a filling. I know… shocking, but we don’t just hand them out like party favors.

We’ll:

• Do a clinical exam.

• Take X-rays if needed.

• Explain what we see and why a filling is recommended.

• Talk through options and costs so there are no surprises.

Local Anesthetic

Numbing the area is usually the first step of the procedure.

We use local anesthesia so you don’t feel pain. Just a little pinch when it goes in (honestly less painful than reading your dental insurance policy).

Preparing the Damaged Tooth

Next, I’ll carefully remove the decayed portion of your tooth.

• This can involve a dental drill, air abrasion, or laser (depending on the case).

• You’re numb, so you don’t feel pain, just vibrations and noise.

• We’re precise - only removing decay, not healthy tooth structure.

This is the part that tends to worry people, but it’s actually quick and painless with modern techniques.

Cleaning the Cavity

After decay is out, we clean the cavity thoroughly.

• Removes bacteria and debris.

• May place a liner if decay was near the nerve to protect it.

It’s like disinfecting a wound before you bandage it.

Applying the Filling

Here’s where the magic happens.

• We layer the filling material in small increments.

• A special curing light hardens composite layers.

• We sculpt it to match your tooth’s natural shape.

It’s a little like dental pottery class, minus the spinning wheel.

The Finishing Touches

Finally, we:

• Check your bite to make sure everything feels normal.

• Trim and polish the filling for smoothness.

• Adjust if needed so you don’t feel high spots when you bite.

We want it to look good, feel good, and function like it should.

Caring for Your Filling

Aftercare is simple.

Avoid chewing until numbness wears off – You don’t want to bite your cheek and add insult to injury.

Mild sensitivity is normal – Hot or cold sensitivity may last a few days.

Brush and floss as usual – Good oral hygiene keeps your filling (and other teeth) healthy.

Avoid super hard or sticky foods They can stress the filling.

Problems You May Encounter

Fillings are durable but not immortal. Things to watch for:

• Sensitivity that lasts weeks – Could mean it’s too high or there’s another issue.

• Cracks or wear – Especially if you grind your teeth.

• Filling falling out – Rare, but can happen. Call us if it does.

  
  

Have a Filling Performed at the First Sign of a Problem

Don’t wait.

• Early decay = small filling.

• Waiting too long = bigger filling, possible crown, or even a root canal.

Think of it as fixing a small leak before your basement floods.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings

What happens during a dental filling procedure? Your dentist numbs the area, removes decay, cleans the cavity, places the filling material, and polishes it.

Does getting a filling hurt? With local anesthetic, you shouldn’t feel pain. Just vibration and pressure.

Do fillings remove decay? Yes. The dentist removes all decayed material before placing the filling.

When is it too late to get a tooth filling? If decay is too deep or the tooth is too damaged, you may need a crown or root canal instead.

How long do fillings last? 5–15 years on average, depending on material and care.

Can I eat after a filling? Yes, but wait until numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek.

Are amalgam fillings safe? Yes. They’re durable and approved by dental associations worldwide.

How much do dental fillings cost? Varies based on material, location, and insurance. We’ll discuss costs up front.

Will fillings need to be replaced? Eventually. They can wear out, crack, or fall out over many years. Everything has a shelf life.

When To Call the Dentist

• Severe pain after a filling

• Filling feels too high or uneven

• Filling cracks or falls out

• Prolonged sensitivity

If any of these happen, don’t tough it out. Give us a call.

The Bottom Line

Getting a dental filling doesn’t have to be a big deal. It’s one of the most common, routine procedures in dentistry, and it’s over before you know it.

Modern techniques make it comfortable, fast, and effective. Best of all, it helps preserve your natural tooth and keep you smiling.

If you’re looking for fillings, restorative dentistry, or just a dentist you can trust, I’d be happy to see you at my office here in Amherst, NY.

Have questions? Reach out anytime. And remember—there’s no need to be nervous about your dental filling appointment. I promise you’ll be in good hands.