Patient Information

Dental Fillings & Direct Restorations

Repair cavities and restore your smile with tooth-colored composite in a single, comfortable visit.

Dental fillings (also called direct restorations) repair cavities and damaged tooth structure in a single visit. They stop decay from spreading, restore the tooth's shape and function, and protect it from further damage. Modern tooth-colored composite fillings blend with your natural teeth for a natural look, while still being strong and durable for everyday chewing and biting.

At Brown Street Dental, Dr. Sunny Golwala and our team use up-to-date materials and techniques to place fillings with minimal discomfort and maximum durability. We focus on preserving your natural tooth, matching the shade of your teeth when possible, and giving you clear aftercare advice so your restoration lasts for years. Our goal is to restore your smile in a comfortable, patient-centered way.

Dental filling procedure at Brown Street Dental
Gentle, precise placement of a direct restoration at Brown Street Dental.

The Procedure

  1. Examination & Assessment

    Your dentist will:

    • Examine the tooth and any X-rays to confirm the extent of decay or damage
    • Discuss filling options (e.g. composite, amalgam) and recommend the best choice for you
    • Explain the steps of the procedure and answer your questions

  2. Numbing (If Needed)

    For comfort during the procedure:

    • Local anaesthetic is applied so you feel little or no discomfort
    • We wait for the area to become fully numb before starting
    • You can signal if you need more numbing at any time

  3. Removal of Decay

    The dentist will:

    • Remove the decayed or damaged tooth structure
    • Clean and prepare the cavity so the filling bonds well
    • Keep the preparation as conservative as possible to preserve healthy tooth

  4. Placement of the Filling

    For direct restorations:

    • Composite (tooth-colored) material is placed in layers and hardened with a special light
    • Each layer is shaped to restore the tooth's natural form
    • The material bonds directly to the tooth for a strong, sealed result

  5. Shaping & Polishing

    To finish your restoration:

    • Your dentist will shape the filling so your bite feels normal
    • The surface is polished so it feels smooth and is easy to keep clean
    • You may be asked to bite on a thin paper to check the bite before you leave

  6. Aftercare Advice

    You will be given guidance on:

    • Possible temporary sensitivity and how to manage it
    • Brushing and flossing around the new filling
    • When to avoid very hard or sticky foods (if at all)
    • When to call the practice if something feels wrong or the filling chips
Natural-looking result after dental filling at Brown Street Dental
Natural-looking, durable result after a direct restoration.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Why patients choose direct restorations

  • ✓Restores tooth function and strength so you can chew and bite normally
  • ✓Stops decay from spreading and protects the tooth from further damage
  • ✓Tooth-colored composite provides a natural-looking result
  • ✓Usually completed in one visit—no need for multiple appointments
  • ✓Preserves more of your natural tooth than a crown when a filling is suitable
  • ✓Long-lasting with good oral hygiene and regular checkups

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do dental fillings hurt?
    The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, so you typically feel little or no pain during the procedure. You may feel slight pressure. Some patients have mild sensitivity for a few days afterward—this usually fades. If you are anxious, tell us so we can make you more comfortable.
  • How long do fillings last?
    With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, composite fillings often last several years to a decade or more. Their lifespan depends on the size of the filling, your bite, and how well you care for your teeth. Your dentist will monitor them at your checkups.
  • What is the difference between composite and amalgam fillings?
    Composite fillings are tooth-colored and bond directly to the tooth; they are often used for visible areas and smaller to medium cavities. Amalgam (silver) fillings are very strong and have been used for decades, especially in back teeth. Your dentist will recommend the best option for your tooth and preference.
  • Can I eat right after a filling?
    It's best to wait until the numbness wears off (usually 1–2 hours) so you don't bite your cheek or tongue. After that, you can eat as usual. If you had a composite filling, it is set immediately. Your dentist may suggest avoiding very hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours if needed.
  • What if my filling falls out or feels high?
    If a filling falls out or chips, contact us so we can see you soon and repair or replace it. If your bite feels high or uneven after the appointment, call us—a quick adjustment usually resolves it and prevents discomfort or damage to the tooth.
  • Are white (composite) fillings as strong as silver ones?
    Modern composite fillings are strong and durable for most cavities. For very large restorations or heavy chewing areas, your dentist may suggest a different option (e.g. inlay or crown). We choose the material that best fits the size and location of the cavity and your goals.

Need a filling or have a cavity? Contact Brown Street Dental to book an appointment.

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