A tooth filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay or a small chip, restoring its shape so you can bite and chew comfortably. At our Al Rigga clinic, your dentist examines the tooth first and explains whether a filling is the right option.
The basics
A dental filling is a material placed into a tooth to repair damage — most often a cavity caused by decay. Decay happens when bacteria in plaque produce acids that gradually break down the hard outer layers of the tooth.
If decay is left untreated, the cavity can grow deeper towards the nerve, which may lead to pain, infection or the need for more complex treatment. A filling removes the damaged area and seals the tooth, helping to stop decay from progressing and restoring normal function.
Common reasons
Only a dentist can confirm whether you need a filling, usually after an examination and sometimes an X-ray. Common reasons people are assessed for a filling include:
Materials
Dental fillings can be made from different materials, such as tooth-coloured composite resin, glass ionomer, ceramic or amalgam. Each has different properties, and the right choice depends on the tooth's position, the size of the cavity and your needs.
Please ask our team which filling materials are currently available at our Al Rigga clinic — your dentist will explain the suitable options for your tooth during your consultation.
Step by step
The dentist checks the tooth and may take an X-ray to see the extent of the decay.
Local anaesthetic is usually used to numb the area where appropriate.
Decayed or damaged tooth structure is carefully removed.
The cavity is prepared and filled with the chosen material.
The filling is shaped, polished and your bite is checked.
Local anaesthetic is normally used, so many patients feel pressure or vibration rather than pain. Everyone's experience is different — let your dentist know if you are anxious or feel discomfort, and they can pause. Some sensitivity for a few days afterwards is common.
There is no single answer. Timing depends on the size and location of the cavity, how many teeth need treatment and the material used. Your dentist will give you an estimate once they have examined the tooth.
Longevity depends on the filling material, where the tooth is, bite forces such as grinding, oral hygiene and regular check-ups. No filling lasts forever, so your dentist will monitor it at routine visits.
Pricing
The price of a tooth filling is confirmed after examination, because it depends on your tooth. We explain the cost clearly before treatment starts. If you plan on using dental insurance, ask us to check your eligibility first.
Fillings and root canal treatment deal with different situations. Your dentist decides which is suitable after examining the tooth.
Repairs decay or damage in the outer layers of the tooth (enamel and dentine) when the nerve is healthy.
Treats infection or inflammation of the nerve (pulp) inside the tooth, usually followed by a filling or crown.
Learn about root canal treatmentArrange a dental assessment if you notice:
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Another patient story from our Dubai clinic.
When decay reaches the nerve inside the tooth.
Protect teeth with large fillings or heavy damage.
When a tooth cannot be saved.
Regular cleaning helps prevent new cavities.
Prompt help for toothache or a broken filling.
See how treatment costs are explained.
A tooth filling is a restoration that repairs a tooth damaged by decay or a small break. The dentist removes the damaged part of the tooth and fills the space with a dental material to restore its shape and function.
The cost depends on the size and position of the cavity, the filling material and whether other treatment is needed. Contact our Al Rigga clinic for the current price — we explain costs before any treatment begins.
Most fillings are carried out with local anaesthetic to numb the area, so many patients feel pressure rather than pain. Experiences vary, and some sensitivity afterwards is common. Tell your dentist if you feel discomfort at any point.
Timing varies with the size of the cavity, the number of teeth being treated and the material used. Your dentist can give you an estimate after examining the tooth.
There is no fixed lifespan. Longevity depends on the filling material, the tooth's position, your bite, oral hygiene and regular check-ups. Your dentist will monitor fillings at routine visits.
Fillings suit small to moderate damage. When a large part of the tooth is lost, a dentist may recommend another option such as a crown. This can only be decided after an examination.
If decay or damage has reached the nerve (pulp) inside the tooth and it is infected or inflamed, a filling alone may not be enough and root canal treatment may be recommended.
Message us on WhatsApp or call to arrange your visit to our Al Rigga clinic. Your dentist will examine the tooth and explain your options and the cost before treatment.
