What Are Dental Fillings and Why Are They Needed?

Jun 01, 2025

Ever felt that jolt while chewing and thought, “Uh-oh”? Tooth pain doesn’t mean panic. If you’re looking for dental fillings in Calgary, SW, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. It’s a simple fix that can protect your tooth and your peace of mind. Let’s break down what you need to know.

What Are Dental Fillings?

Let’s break it down.

Dental fillings are materials dentists use to fill holes in teeth caused by decay. These holes—called cavities—form when bacteria break down your tooth’s surface. Once that decay sets in, it doesn’t go away on its own. A filling stops it from getting worse.

Think of a filling like patching a pothole. It seals the gap, restores strength, and brings the tooth back to normal.

Common materials used include:

Composite resin – Matches your tooth color. Great for visible teeth.
Amalgam – Durable and strong. Ideal for back molars.
Gold – Long-lasting but less common today.
Ceramic – Tooth-colored and stain-resistant.

Each type has its own perks. Your dentist will help you decide what works right for your needs.

Why You Need Dental Fillings

No one loves the idea of getting a filling, but leaving a cavity untreated leads to bigger problems.

Here’s why they matter:

Stops decay from spreading – Cavities grow deeper without treatment.
Prevents toothache – Pain usually shows up when the decay hits a nerve.
Protects your tooth structure – Fillings help save the tooth instead of needing an extraction later.
Restores chewing – A damaged tooth makes eating uncomfortable or even painful.
Improves appearance – Composite fillings blend in and restore your smile.

Now, imagine waiting too long. That small cavity becomes a big headache. It can lead to root canals, crowns, or worse—removal. That’s why it’s smart to get it fixed early. If you’re unsure, a dentist near you can take a quick look and let you know what’s going on.

What to Expect During the Procedure

It’s natural to feel nervous about dental work. But fillings are pretty straightforward. In most cases, you’re in and out within an hour. Knowing what’s coming can help ease those nerves.

Here’s what usually happens:

Numbing the area – The dentist applies local anesthesia to keep things pain-free.
Cleaning the cavity – The damaged part of your tooth gets removed.
Filling the space – The dentist places the chosen filling material.
Shaping and polishing – They smooth everything out so it feels natural.

The goal? You walk out feeling normal again, with a tooth that works like it should.

Process of Getting a Dental Filling

Want the full breakdown? Let’s walk through it step-by-step.

Step 1: Exam and Diagnosis
Your dentist starts with an exam. They may use an X-ray to spot the cavity. Some cavities hide in places you can’t see in the mirror.

Step 2: Numbing the Tooth
A numbing gel goes on first, followed by a small injection. This keeps you comfortable while the dentist works.

Step 3: Removing the Decay
Using a tiny drill or laser, the dentist cleans out the decay. It sounds scarier than it is—most people feel nothing thanks to the anesthesia.

Step 4: Filling Placement
Once the tooth is clean, the dentist applies the filling. They shape it to match your bite, ensuring it feels natural.

Step 5: Finishing Touches
A quick polish and final check follows. You’re done.

Aftercare Tips:

Avoid chewing on the filled side for a few hours.
Don’t skip brushing and flossing.
If your bite feels off, go back for an adjustment.

This whole process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. If you ever find yourself in sudden pain or you bite into something and feel a sharp crack, reach out. An emergency dentist in Calgary SW can help even after hours.

When to Get a Filling Checked

Sometimes, you won’t even feel the cavity. That’s why checkups matter. But here are some signs to watch for:

Toothache or sensitivity to hot/cold
Pain when chewing
A noticeable hole or dark spot on your tooth
Bad breath that doesn’t go away

Catching a cavity early means a simpler fix. Waiting only makes it worse. So, if something feels off, don’t ignore it.

Kids and Fillings

Yes, kids get cavities, too. Baby teeth still need care. Fillings help kids avoid pain and keep their teeth strong until their adult teeth come in.

If your child avoids brushing or loves sugary snacks, their dentist may spot early decay during a visit. The good news? Fillings for kids are often quick and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let a small cavity turn into a big problem. At My Dental Clinic – Calgary, we make fixing teeth easy, quick, and stress-free. Our team is ready to help you feel better fast. Book your visit today and take the first step toward a stronger, pain-free smile. Your teeth deserve care—let’s get started!