Dental treatment guide

5 min read

Dental fillings

A dental filling repairs a tooth affected by decay or damage. Material choice and suitability depend on the tooth, clinical findings and discussion with a dentist.

Fillings are used to restore tooth structure after decay, fracture or wear. The dentist assesses the tooth before discussing whether a filling is suitable.

Different materials may be used for different situations. This guide does not recommend one material for everyone or replace personalised treatment advice.

At a glance

Understand the purpose

Tooth repair

A filling replaces missing or damaged tooth structure.
Suitability depends on the amount of tooth remaining and the reason for damage.
A dentist can explain material options and limitations.

Ask questions

Before treatment

Ask why a filling is recommended and what alternatives exist.
Ask what aftercare or review may be needed.
Ask what symptoms should prompt contact after treatment.

Contact the practice

After symptoms

A high bite, worsening pain or sensitivity should be reviewed.
A broken or lost filling needs dental advice.
Swelling, fever or severe pain needs prompt assessment.

Contents

What a filling is

A filling is a restoration placed into a prepared tooth to repair shape and function. The stages vary depending on the material and how much tooth has been affected.

Possible causes or contributing factors

Tooth decay that has damaged enamel or dentine.
A chipped, fractured or worn tooth.
Replacement of an old or leaking restoration.

What you can do now

Ask what the filling is intended to repair.
Discuss material options, costs and limitations.
Follow the treating practice's aftercare advice.

What not to do

Do not choose a material based only on appearance without discussing suitability.
Do not ignore pain or a high bite after treatment.
Do not try to adjust a filling yourself.

When to contact a dentist

You have a cavity, broken tooth or lost filling.
You want to understand material options and alternatives.
Pain, sensitivity or bite changes occur after treatment.

When prompt dental advice is needed

Pain is severe, worsening or affects sleep.
There is swelling, fever, bad taste or difficulty opening the mouth.
A broken filling leaves a sharp edge or the tooth is painful.

What a dentist or relevant professional may assess or do

Assess the tooth, existing restorations and bite.
May remove decay or damaged material and place a suitable restoration.
Discuss alternatives such as monitoring, crowns, root canal treatment or extraction where relevant.

Frequently asked questions

Which filling material is best?

There is no single best material for every tooth. Suitability depends on clinical findings, tooth position, costs and preferences.

Can a filled tooth still get decay?

Yes. Decay can occur around or under restorations, so cleaning and review remain important.

What if a filling hurts afterwards?

Contact the treating practice if pain is worsening, not settling for you or the bite feels high.

Explore treatment guidance

Read Odenta treatment guides before discussing your own suitability, alternatives and aftercare with a dentist.

Browse treatment guides

Official sources

These links open external official guidance pages for further help.

Content reviewed by Dr Majid Saeed · 13 July 2026

References used for this guide are listed above.

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