Dental fillings are the most common dental treatment in the world — and for good reason. They stop tooth decay in its tracks, restore the shape and function of a damaged tooth, and prevent a small cavity from turning into a much bigger problem, such as an abscess or the need for a root canal. If your dentist spotted a cavity at your last check-up, a filling is almost always the next step.
When You Need a Dental Filling
Common reasons your dentist may recommend dental fillings include:
- A new cavity caused by tooth decay
- A cracked or chipped tooth from biting hard food or grinding
- Worn-down enamel from teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Replacing an old, leaking, or discolored filling
- Repairing minor cosmetic issues like small gaps or chips on front teeth
The earlier a cavity is caught, the smaller and more affordable the filling. Skipping check-ups often turns a ₱2,000 filling into a ₱20,000 root canal and crown.
What to Expect During a Dental Filling
A standard dental filling appointment at Dentalis takes 30 to 45 minutes per tooth and follows these steps:
- Local anesthesia — numbs the area so you feel no pain during the procedure
- Decay removal — the dentist cleans out the cavity and shapes it to hold the filling
- Filling placement — the chosen material is placed in layers, hardened with a curing light (for composite), and shaped to match your bite
- Polishing — the filling is smoothed and polished so it feels and looks like the rest of the tooth
You can usually eat and drink immediately after a tooth-coloured filling. Numbness from the anesthesia wears off in 1-3 hours.
How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost
Cost depends on the material, the size of the cavity, and the tooth being filled. As a rough guide, it is usually around Php 1,500 to Php 4,000 per tooth.