A front tooth filling is a dental treatment used to repair a decayed, chipped, or damaged front tooth. Unlike back teeth, front teeth are highly visible, so these fillings are designed to match the natural color of your tooth, maintaining a seamless and attractive smile.
October 14, 2025 • 12 min read
Understanding Front Tooth Fillings and Their Importance
When you hear the word cavity, you might immediately think of back molars.
But cavities can also form on your front teeth, where they are much more visible and can affect not just your dental health but also your confidence.
That’s where front tooth fillings come in.
They rebuild your tooth’s strength while maintaining the aesthetics of your smile.
Many patients are nervous before getting a front tooth filling, wondering, “Will it hurt?” How long will it last? What should I do after the treatment?
If you’ve ever searched for a front tooth filling near you, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from causes and procedures to aftercare and long-term maintenance.
What Is a Front Tooth Filling?
A front tooth filling is a restorative treatment that repairs cavities, cracks, or damage in the visible teeth at the front of your mouth (incisors and canines).
Unlike fillings for back teeth, front tooth fillings are often made from tooth-colored composite resin.
It’s designed to blend in with your tooth color, creating a natural look.
Why Front Tooth Fillings Matter:
- Prevents cavity growth and further decay
- Restores chewing and biting function
- Maintains your smile’s natural look
- Protects against tooth fractures
- Preserves overall oral health
“According to the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), untreated cavities can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss — making early treatment essential.”
Common causes of front tooth cavities and when to seek treatment
Front tooth cavities usually develop from:
- Neglecting daily cleaning: When teeth aren’t brushed or flossed well, plaque remains on the surface.
- Sugary or acidic foods and drinks: Soda, candy, and fruit juices erode enamel.
- Accidents or trauma: Chips or cracks that expose dentin can lead to decay.
- Enamel erosion: Caused by grinding (bruxism) or acid reflux.
When to see a dentist:
- You notice white, brown, or black spots on your front tooth
- You feel sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- You see a small hole or chip in the tooth
- You experience pain when biting
Early treatment makes the filling simpler, faster, and less expensive.
Dr. Dharmanshu Boghara, a general dentist at Heritage Pointe Dental, explains:
“The sooner we detect and repair a cavity, the more natural tooth structure we can preserve — and the more aesthetic and comfortable your result will be.”
Step-by-step procedure for front tooth cavity filling
What happens during a front tooth cavity filling? Here’s what to expect:
-
Examination & X-rays
–Your dentist checks the tooth and may take X-rays to assess the depth of decay. -
Local anesthesia
– For most front tooth fillings, only a small amount of numbing is needed. Sometimes, if the cavity is shallow, anesthesia may not be required at all. -
Decay removal
– The dentist carefully removes the decayed portion of the tooth. -
Tooth preparation
– The surface is cleaned and shaped to securely hold the filling. -
Filling application
– A tooth-colored resin is applied in thin layers, hardened with a special curing light. -
Shaping and polishing
– The dentist shapes the filling to match your natural tooth and polishes it for a smooth finish.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), composite fillings last between 7–10 years with proper care.
What to expect immediately after your front tooth filling
- Numbness: You may feel numb for 1–2 hours after treatment.
- Mild sensitivity: Hot, cold, or sweet foods might trigger sensitivity for a few days.
- Unusual bite: Your bite may feel slightly off. If discomfort does not subside, go to your dentist for an adjustment.
- Appearance: Your tooth should appear natural and seamless right away.
Most patients can return to normal activities the same day.
Essential oral care tips after front tooth filling treatment
- Brush gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush twice a day.
- Floss daily to keep the area clean.
- Use a fluoride mouthwash for extra protection.
- Try not to put pressure on your front teeth by chewing hard items like nuts or ice.
- Schedule regular dental cleanings every 6 months.
Signs of complications and when to contact your dentist
Most fillings heal well without problems; however, it’s essential to monitor how your tooth feels after treatment.
Signs that something may not be right include:
- Prolonged sensitivity – While mild discomfort is normal, ongoing sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods for more than two weeks may indicate the filling is too high or the tooth nerve is irritated.
- Sharp or throbbing pain – This could signal that decay has spread deeper or that the filling needs adjustment.
- Visible damage – A crack, chip, or gap in your filling leaves the tooth exposed to new decay.
- Swelling or gum irritation – If the area around the filling appears swollen, red, or sore, it may indicate an infection or a poor fit.
- Loose feeling – If the filling feels like it moves when you bite, it needs immediate attention.
How to maintain your front tooth filling for long-term health
A front tooth filling requires the same daily care as your natural teeth, along with a couple of special precautions:
- Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, using a soft-bristle toothbrush. Brushing too hard can wear down both the enamel and the edges of the filling.
- Daily flossing helps remove plaque in hard-to-reach spots, especially around the filled tooth.
- Limit sugary snacks and avoid sipping on sweetened drinks throughout the day, as this creates constant acid exposure.
- Rinse after consuming acidic foods/drinks (such as citrus or soda) to protect your enamel and filling edges.
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth at night, as grinding can weaken or crack fillings.
- Visit your dentist every six months for exams and cleanings to identify any potential issues early.
“Composite fillings are strong, but they rely on your daily habits,” notes Dr. Sid Parikh . “Gentle care and regular maintenance can extend their life well beyond 10 years.”
Choosing the right dental clinic for front tooth fillings in Calgary
A front tooth filling restores your tooth, protects your oral health, and helps you smile with confidence.
By recognizing early signs of complications, following good care habits, and avoiding damaging foods or habits, you can make your filling last for many years.
But the most important step is choosing a trusted dental team.
At Heritage Pointe Dental, we specialize in cosmetic and restorative treatments, including front tooth fillings, with a focus on achieving natural-looking results and providing long-term care. Whether you need a new filling, repair, or routine maintenance, our dentists are here to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does a front tooth filling last?
A composite front tooth filling typically lasts 7–10 years, but with excellent oral hygiene, it can last even longer.
- Is getting a front tooth filling painful?
No, the procedure is usually painless. Local anesthesia ensures you are comfortable, and some shallow fillings may not even require numbing.
- Can I eat normally after a front tooth filling?
Yes, once the numbness wears off, you can eat soft foods. Avoid biting directly into hard foods with the filled tooth for at least 24 hours.
- What should I do if my filling feels sensitive?
Mild sensitivity is normal for a few days. If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, contact your dentist.
- How do I find reliable front tooth filling services in Calgary?
If you’re searching for a front tooth filling near me, look no further than Heritage Pointe Dental. Our experienced team offers high-quality front tooth cavity fillings in Calgary, providing personalized care and long-lasting results.
References
https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/procedures/fillings_cavities.asp
About the Author
Dr. Dharmanshu Boghara, DDS
General Dentist at
Heritage Pointe Dental
Dr. Boghara has over 15 years of experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, specializing in front tooth fillings, dental implants, and smile restorations. Based in Calgary since 2014, he is committed to compassionate, patient-focused care and staying at the forefront of dental advancements.
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