How many fillings are normal?
Dental fillings are one of the most common treatments in dentistry, in New York and everywhere else. They are the standard way to treat a cavity caused by tooth decay. The dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth so the decay can't spread, then fills the space to restore the tooth's shape and function.
Regular checkups are important for finding cavities early, when the filling is small. Left untreated, a cavity can grow until it reaches the nerve and causes an infection or abscess, which may then need a root canal or even an extraction. Treating problems early saves more of your natural tooth.
The types of dental fillings
Filling materials differ in appearance, strength and cost. The common types are:
- Amalgam fillings. Silver-colored fillings made from a mix of metals, including silver, tin, copper and mercury. They are durable and have long been used in back teeth, where chewing forces are greatest. Because they're silver, they show more than tooth-colored fillings.
- Composite fillings. Also called composite resin fillings, they're made of a plastic resin mixed with fine glass particles. They can be shaded to match your natural teeth, which makes them a common choice for visible teeth and for small to medium-sized cavities.
- Glass ionomer fillings. Tooth-colored fillings made from glass and acrylic. They release a small amount of fluoride, and they're often used near the gum line and in baby teeth. They're less durable than other materials and may need replacing sooner.
- Ceramic fillings. Usually made of porcelain, they resist staining and can be color-matched to your teeth. They're typically made to fit as inlays or onlays.
- Gold fillings. Very durable and well tolerated by the gums, but more expensive, and they usually take more than one visit. Their color is noticeable.
The right material depends on how large the repair is, where the tooth is, cost and your preferences. At Dentist on Madison we place tooth-colored fillings that are shaded to blend in with the teeth around them, and we'll explain your options at your visit.
How many fillings is too much?
There is no "normal" number of fillings and no set limit. How many you have depends on many things: your brushing and flossing habits, your diet, how often you snack or sip sugary drinks, dry mouth, genetics and how regularly you've seen a dentist over the years. Many adults have several fillings, because the risk of cavities adds up over a lifetime. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, nearly 90% of adults ages 20 to 64 have had tooth decay.
What matters more than the count is how much healthy tooth is left. A tooth with many fillings, or one very large filling, has less natural structure holding it together and can crack or break. When a tooth is more filling than tooth, a dental crown may protect it better than another filling.
The goal is always to keep as much healthy natural tooth as possible. No filling, whatever the material, is as good as a healthy tooth. That is why prevention and early, small repairs matter more than any particular number.
How to need fewer fillings
- brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth daily
- cut down on sugary and acidic snacks and drinks, especially between meals
- drink water after eating or drinking something sugary
- keep up with regular checkups and cleanings, so small problems are found early
If you're worried about how many fillings you have, or a filling feels rough, sensitive or broken, talk to your dentist. To book a visit at our office in Midtown Manhattan, call (212) 227-4600.
Frequently asked questions
How long do fillings last?
It depends on the material, the size of the filling, where it is and your habits. Fillings can last many years, but chewing forces, grinding, new decay at the edges and wear all take a toll over time. Your dentist checks your fillings at every checkup and will tell you if one is cracked, worn or leaking and needs replacing.
Does getting a filling hurt?
The dentist numbs the tooth and the gum around it with a local anesthetic before starting, so most people feel pressure and vibration rather than pain. It's common for a tooth to be a little sensitive to cold or pressure for a few days afterward. If the sensitivity gets worse or your bite feels uneven, call your dentist.
Should I replace my old silver fillings?
A silver (amalgam) filling that is intact, with no decay around it, usually doesn't need to be replaced just because of its material. Removing a sound filling also removes some healthy tooth. If you have questions about your fillings, ask your dentist to check them and explain your options.
Can I eat after a filling?
Wait until the numbness wears off, so you don't bite your cheek, lip or tongue. Tooth-colored composite fillings are hardened with a curing light during the visit, but it's sensible to chew gently on that side for the rest of the day.
What happens during a filling appointment?
After numbing the area, the dentist removes the decay and cleans the cavity. For a tooth-colored filling, the material is placed in thin layers, each hardened with a curing light, then shaped to fit your bite and polished. A typical filling is done in one visit. The dentist checks your bite before you leave, so the tooth doesn't feel high when you close your mouth.
Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver ones?
Modern composite fillings hold up well for small and medium-sized cavities, including in back teeth. For a very large repair, where little natural tooth is left, an inlay, onlay or crown may last longer than any direct filling. Your dentist will suggest the option that best protects the tooth you have.
*This article is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice.*
Sources
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Dental caries (tooth decay) in adults
- American Dental Association, MouthHealthy: Cavities
- MedlinePlus: Tooth decay