A dental filling restores tooth structure lost through decay or minor damage. Learn what fillings do, when they’re needed, the materials used, what to expect after treatment, and how long they can last.
Find out when you can eat after a filling, how long dental numbness usually lasts, which foods are safest, and what to avoid while your tooth settles.
Can tooth fillings hurt? Learn what to expect during and after treatment, why a filled tooth may feel sensitive, how long discomfort can last, and when to see a dentist.
How long does a dental filling take? Learn the typical treatment time for one filling, what happens during the procedure, factors that affect timing, and how long multiple or deep fillings may take.
Find out how much a dental filling costs on the NHS in England in 2026, whether you pay for each filling, how white fillings are charged, who qualifies for free treatment, and how NHS costs compare with private fillings.
Cavity fillings can be made from five main material groups: composite resin, dental amalgam, glass ionomer, ceramic, and gold-containing alloys. Learn what each filling material is made of and how they differ.
Dental fillings can last anywhere from several years to two decades or more, depending on the material, filling size, tooth location, biting forces, oral hygiene and restoration quality.
Learn how to tell if you may need a dental filling. Discover 7 common warning signs, why cavities can develop without pain, and how dentists confirm whether restorative treatment is needed.
How long does a temporary filling last? Learn how long temporary fillings typically remain in place, what affects their lifespan, and when they may need replacing.
What should you do if a filling falls out? Learn the steps to take, what to avoid, when you need urgent dental care and how a dentist can repair or replace the filling.
What is a root canal? Learn what root canals contain, how root canal treatment works, why teeth become infected, common symptoms and how treatment preserves natural teeth.