Who needs fillings?
Anyone with a cavity, a chipped tooth or a worn edge may need a filling. Warning signs include sensitivity to sweet or cold foods and food regularly getting stuck in one area.
Children often need fillings in back teeth, where grooves trap food. Early treatment keeps the tooth healthy.
- Tooth-coloured materials that blend in
- Stops decay from spreading
- Keeps as much healthy tooth as possible
How the procedure works
- 1We examine the tooth and take an X-ray if the decay is between teeth.
- 2The area is numbed with local anaesthesia so you feel no pain.
- 3The decayed part is removed, leaving as much healthy tooth as possible.
- 4The tooth-coloured material is placed in layers, shaped and hardened with a special light, then polished.
Pain and recovery
Numbness usually wears off within a few hours. Avoid chewing hard food on the treated side until it has gone, so you do not bite your cheek or tongue.
Some sensitivity to cold can last a few days, especially with deeper fillings. Contact the clinic if the pain is strong or persistent.
Price range
A filling is priced after your examination, because the size and position of the cavity affect the treatment. Ask us on WhatsApp for the current guide.
See how pricing works on our prices overview.
Before and after care
- Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth.
- Avoid very hard foods on the filling for the first day.
- Attend your checkups so the filling can be checked.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a tooth filling last?
A well-placed composite filling can last many years. Good brushing, cleaning between teeth and regular checkups help it last longer.
Are tooth-coloured fillings strong enough for back teeth?
Modern composite materials suit most back teeth. Your dentist will advise if a larger restoration, such as a crown, is a better choice.
Will the filling hurt?
The area is numbed first, so you should feel pressure but not pain. Tell us if you feel anxious and we will go at your pace.
What is the difference between a filling and a root canal?
A filling repairs decay that has not reached the nerve. A root canal treats an infected nerve, and is usually needed when decay is deeper.
Can I eat straight after a filling?
Wait until the numbness has fully worn off, then eat on the other side for the first day. Avoid very hard food on the filling until it has settled.
The information on this site is general and is not a substitute for an examination by a dentist. Treatment decisions should be made after a consultation. In a medical emergency, contact emergency services or go to the nearest hospital.
Written and reviewed by Dr. Kamran Shahzad, BDS (Pb), C. Ortho (Germany). Last reviewed Sunday, 25 October 2026.
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