Dental Fillings by Our Local Dentists

Comfort, Function, and a Smile That Feels More Balanced

What to Expect at Your Filling Appointment

Dental fillings are a common way to treat cavities and help protect a tooth from further decay. At Aurora North Dental, we focus on a comfortable, efficient visit with clear next steps. You can learn more about how cavities and dental decay start. During your appointment, we examine the tooth and may take X-rays to confirm the extent of the cavity, supported by modern imaging and tools highlighted in dental technology. A local anesthetic is used when needed to keep you comfortable. Then we gently remove the decay and place the filling material to restore strength and function as part of dental fillings.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Fillings?

Fillings do more than repair a cavity, they help restore everyday comfort and function. Treating decay early can help patients:


  • Stop cavities from getting larger
  • Reduce the risk of tooth pain or infection
  • Restore chewing comfort and normal bite function
  • Protect the tooth structure from further damage
  • Maintain a natural-looking smile with tooth-colored options


For some patients, preventive options like dental sealants may also be recommended to help reduce the risk of future cavities on vulnerable tooth surfaces.

When to Book a Filling and Temporary Fillings

Most patients can complete a filling in a single visit, often in under an hour, and booking sooner usually allows for a more conservative treatment. If you notice sensitivity to hot or cold, discomfort with sweet foods, a visible dark spot, or a small pit in a tooth, an exam and X-rays can confirm whether a filling is needed.


In some cases, a temporary fillingmay be placed to protect the tooth between visits, such as when the area needs to settle or when additional treatment is planned. Temporary fillings are meant to be short-term, so if the material feels loose, cracks, or if sensitivity increases, contact the clinic so we can address it promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How Long Does a Dental Filling Take?

    Many fillings can be completed in 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity and whether one or multiple teeth are being treated. If X-rays are needed or the cavity is more extensive, the visit may take longer.

  • Do Dental Fillings Hurt?

    Most patients do not feel pain during the procedure because local anesthetic is used when needed. You may feel pressure or vibration while the tooth is being treated, and mild soreness or sensitivity is possible for a day or two afterward.

  • What Types of Fillings Are Available?

    Common options include tooth-colored composite fillings and, in some cases, other materials based on the tooth location, bite forces, and clinical needs. Your dentist will explain what is appropriate for your tooth and what to expect for durability and appearance.

  • What Should I Avoid After a Filling?

    Once the numbness wears off, it is usually best to avoid very hot or cold foods if you feel sensitivity, and to be cautious with hard or sticky foods for the first day. If your bite feels “high” or uncomfortable, contact the clinic so we can adjust the filling.

  • How Do I Know if I Need a Filling?

    Cavities are often found during routine exams before symptoms start. If you notice sensitivity, lingering discomfort, a rough edge, or a dark spot on a tooth, it is worth booking an evaluation so decay can be treated early and more comfortably.