A small dark spot on a tooth can feel like a big problem. Cavities form when bacteria wear away the hard outer layer of your teeth and create a weak, damaged area. Left unchecked, that tiny spot can turn into pain, infection, and even tooth loss.

This is where tooth fillings in London ON, play an important role. A filling restores strength to your tooth, seals out bacteria, and helps you chew, smile, and speak with confidence again.

Why Do Cavities Need Fillings?

A cavity causes lasting damage to the hard surface of your tooth that cannot heal on its own. Once the enamel is decayed, it cannot repair itself. Brushing and flossing help stop new decay, but they cannot rebuild the part that has already broken down.

If a cavity is not treated:

• The hole grows deeper into the tooth.
• You may feel sensitivity to cold, heat, or sweets.
• Bacteria can reach the nerve inside the tooth.
• The risk of infection and abscess rises.

A filling removes the decayed portion and replaces it with a strong, durable material. This stops the cavity from spreading and protects the deeper parts of the tooth. In many cases, treating a small cavity with a filling prevents the need for a root canal or extraction later.

What Happens During a Filling Appointment?

A filling visit is a routine procedure in most dental offices. Here’s what happens during a filling:

1. Exam and X-rays (if needed).

Your dentist will confirm the size and location of the cavity and check nearby teeth.

2. Numbing the area.

A local anesthetic is placed near the tooth so you stay comfortable throughout the procedure.

3. Removing the decay.

Your dentist uses a dental handpiece and small instruments to clean away the decayed part of the tooth. Only the damaged area is removed.

4. Shaping and cleaning the space.

The cavity is shaped so the filling material will lock in place. The tooth is rinsed and dried.

5. Placing the filling material.

For tooth-coloured fillings, the material is placed in layers and cured with a special light. For other materials, it might be placed in one piece.

6. Shaping and polishing.

Once the filling is firm, your dentist adjusts your bite and smooths the surface so it feels natural when you close your teeth together.

Most appointments are completed in a single visit, and you leave with a tooth that is stronger and protected.

Do Fillings Hurt? What to Expect for Comfort

Many patients feel nervous before their first filling. It helps to know that modern dentistry focuses on comfort.

With local anaesthetic, you should not feel sharp pain during the procedure. You may notice:

• A brief pinch as the numbing medicine is given.
• Vibration from the dental handpiece.
• Light pressure while the dentist works on the tooth.

After the numbness wears off, it’s normal for the tooth and nearby area to feel a little tender or sensitive, especially when eating cold foods or applying pressure.

Your dentist may suggest:

• Over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
• Chewing on the opposite side for a day or two.
• Call the office if you notice lingering pain or a “high” spot when you bite.

Good communication with your dental team makes a big difference. Let them know if you feel discomfort so they can adjust your care.

What Are the Different Types of Fillings?

Your dentist will recommend a filling material based on the location of the cavity, your bite, and your goals. Common dental filling options include:

• Composite (tooth-coloured) fillings

These blend with your natural tooth shade and are often used in front teeth and visible areas. They bond to the tooth and preserve more of the natural structure.

• Amalgam (silver) fillings

These have been used for many years and are strong and durable, especially in back teeth that take more biting force.

• Glass ionomer fillings

Often used for small cavities or areas near the gumline. They can release fluoride, which helps protect the tooth from future decay.

• Porcelain or gold inlays/onlays

These are custom-made restorations created in a lab and cemented onto the tooth. They are strong and can be a good choice for larger cavities.

Your dentist will explain the pros and cons of each option, including strength, appearance, and cost, so you can choose what feels right for you.

How Long Do Fillings Last and How to Care for Them?

Fillings are strong, but they are not indestructible. Their lifespan depends on the material used, the size of the cavity, your bite, and your home care. Many fillings last for many years with the right habits.

To help your fillings last as long as possible:

• Make brushing with fluoride toothpaste part of your daily routine. It’s one of the simplest ways to keep cavities away.
• Floss once a day to clean between teeth and along the gumline.
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks that feed decay-causing bacteria.
• Avoid chewing ice, hard candies, or opening packages with your teeth.
• Regular dental cleanings and exams help protect your fillings and maintain your overall oral health.

During routine visits, your dentist checks your fillings for wear, cracks, or gaps where bacteria can sneak in. If a filling needs repair or replacement, catching it early protects your tooth from more serious damage.

When to See Your Dentist for a Cavity Check

Cavities do not always cause pain at first. That is why regular exams are so important. You should schedule a visit if you notice:

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
• A rough spot or hole you can feel with your tongue.
• Dark spots or lines on the surface of a tooth.
• Food gets caught in the same place between teeth.

Many people search for tooth fillings near me when discomfort appears. It is better not to wait for pain. Routine checkups give your dentist a chance to find early decay with X-rays and a visual exam, so treatment stays simple and conservative.

Final Thoughts

Cavities are common, but they do not have to lead to tooth loss or major treatment. Fillings remove decay, restore strength, and help you keep your natural teeth in place for many years.

If you’re searching for a dentist in London ON, the friendly team at Spencer Dentistry can help with every step of your cavity care, from early detection to comfortable, long-lasting fillings.