Dental Fillings in Chicago, IL

With proper care, your dental fillings can last for many years. To protect your fillings and your overall oral health, it's important to:

• Brush and Floss Daily: Keeping your teeth clean helps prevent new cavities from forming around your fillings.
• Regular Check-Ups: Visit Dr. Chan for regular dental exams and cleanings. We’ll monitor your fillings and ensure they remain in good condition.
• Avoid Hard Foods: While composite fillings are durable, avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, which could damage the filling or the tooth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings

Does getting a filling hurt?

Most patients feel little to no discomfort during a filling. Dr. Chan numbs the area around the tooth before beginning, so you should not feel pain during the procedure itself. It is common to have some sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure for a few days afterward while the tooth settles, but this typically fades on its own. If sensitivity lasts longer than a week or worsens, let us know so we can check the filling.

How long do dental fillings last?

Composite fillings typically last 7 to 10 years with proper care, though this varies depending on the size of the filling, its location in the mouth, and your oral hygiene habits. Fillings on chewing surfaces tend to wear faster than those on the front teeth. Regular checkups let Dr. Chan monitor your fillings and catch any wear or damage early, before it becomes a bigger issue.

Are composite fillings as strong as metal fillings?

Composite fillings are strong enough for most everyday chewing and biting, and they bond directly to the tooth, which adds some structural support that metal fillings do not provide. For very large fillings or teeth that take on heavy biting force, Dr. Chan may recommend a crown instead, since it offers more durability once the damage extends beyond what a filling can properly support. She will let you know during your visit which option best fits your specific tooth.

Can a cavity heal on its own without a filling?

Very early enamel erosion, sometimes called a white spot, can sometimes be reversed with fluoride treatment and improved oral hygiene before it becomes a true cavity. Once decay has broken through the enamel and created an actual cavity, it will not heal on its own and will continue to grow if left untreated. The earlier a cavity is treated with a filling, the smaller and simpler the procedure tends to be.

How much do dental fillings cost?

The cost of a filling depends on its size, location, and the material used. Composite fillings generally cost more than older metal amalgam fillings but blend in with your natural teeth. We accept most major dental insurance plans, and we will give you a clear cost estimate before any treatment begins.