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Restorative Dentistry

Dental Filling in Vancouver

Restore your teeth with natural-looking composite fillings. Our tooth-colored fillings repair cavities while maintaining the beauty of your smile.

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What is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is a restorative treatment used to repair teeth damaged by decay (cavities). The decayed portion of the tooth is removed and filled with a durable material to restore the tooth's shape, function, and strength. Modern composite fillings are tooth-colored, bonding directly to your tooth for a natural, seamless appearance.

What is a Dental Filling?

Benefits of Dental Filling in Vancouver

Natural Appearance

Tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Preserve Tooth Structure

Composite fillings require less removal of healthy tooth structure.

Strong Bond

Modern fillings bond directly to teeth for added strength and support.

Mercury-Free

Composite fillings are a safe, metal-free alternative to amalgam.

Dental Filling Process

01

Diagnosis

We identify the cavity through examination and X-rays to determine the extent of decay.

02

Numbing

Local anesthesia is applied to ensure your complete comfort during the procedure.

03

Decay Removal

The decayed portion of the tooth is carefully removed, leaving healthy structure intact.

04

Filling Placement

The composite material is placed in layers, hardened with a special light, and shaped to match your bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

We primarily use tooth-colored composite resin fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. For larger restorations or back teeth requiring extra strength, we also offer ceramic and other durable options depending on the cavity location and size.

Composite fillings typically last 5-10 years or longer with proper care. Ceramic fillings can last 10-15 years. Longevity depends on the filling size, location, your oral hygiene habits, and whether you grind your teeth.

No, the area is numbed with local anesthesia before the procedure. You shouldn't feel pain during treatment, only some pressure and vibration. After the numbness wears off, mild sensitivity is normal but typically resolves within a few days.

Common signs include tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets, visible holes or dark spots on teeth, pain when biting or chewing, and food frequently getting caught between teeth. Regular checkups help catch cavities early when they're smaller and easier to treat.

The cost of a filling depends on the size and location of the cavity and the filling material used. Ask us for a quote: we provide estimates before treatment. Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of filling costs, and we bill most plans directly.

A single filling typically takes 30-60 minutes to complete. Multiple fillings may require a longer appointment or separate visits. The procedure includes numbing, decay removal, filling placement, and bite adjustment.

With composite fillings, you can eat as soon as the numbness wears off (usually 1-3 hours). We recommend avoiding very hot or cold foods for the first 24 hours if you experience sensitivity. Chew on the opposite side initially if the filling is large.

Smile Well Dental offers tooth-colored dental fillings at all four Greater Vancouver locations: North Vancouver, Surrey, Langley, and Coquitlam. Our dentists use modern composite materials for natural-looking, durable results.

Don't Let Cavities Worsen

Early treatment preserves more of your natural tooth. Schedule your filling appointment today.