Tooth Decay and Cavity Fillings: Diagnosis, Options and Cost
A toothache or a small dark spot on a tooth is often the first sign of a cavity. Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems we see at our clinic in Mayfield Garden, and the good news is that it is very treatable when caught early. This article explains how cavities are diagnosed, the filling materials available, and what treatment typically costs in Gurugram.
How Tooth Decay and Cavities Are Diagnosed
Cavities form when bacteria in plaque break down sugars and produce acid that wears away tooth enamel over time. Diagnosis usually involves a few simple steps.
- Visual examination: The dentist checks for discoloration, rough spots, or visible holes in the teeth.
- Dental probing: A fine instrument is used to feel for soft or sticky areas on the tooth surface that indicate decay.
- X-rays: Cavities between teeth or under old fillings are often invisible to the eye, so dental X-rays help confirm the size and depth of decay.
- Symptom review: Pain while chewing, sensitivity to sweets, or lingering discomfort with hot and cold foods can all point toward a cavity.
Once the extent of decay is known, the dentist can recommend the right treatment, which for most cavities is a filling.
Filling Material Options
There are several materials used for dental fillings, each with its own benefits depending on the location of the cavity, the size of the decay, and your budget.
Composite (Tooth-Coloured) Fillings
Composite resin is the most commonly used filling material today. It bonds directly to the tooth, matches your natural tooth shade, and works well for both front and back teeth. It requires slightly more precision during placement but gives a natural-looking result.
Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC)
GIC releases fluoride, which can help protect against further decay. It is often used for fillings in children's teeth, small cavities, or areas near the gumline where moisture control is difficult.
Silver Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam has been used for decades and is known for its strength and durability, particularly in back teeth that take heavy chewing pressure. Its main drawback is the metallic appearance, which is why many patients now prefer tooth-coloured options.
Ceramic or Porcelain Inlays
For larger cavities where a simple filling may not be strong enough, a ceramic inlay or onlay may be recommended. These are custom-made in a lab and bonded into the tooth, offering excellent durability and a natural look.
| Filling Type | Best Suited For | Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| Composite resin | Front and back teeth, moderate cavities | Tooth-coloured |
| Glass ionomer | Small cavities, children, near gumline | Tooth-coloured, less durable |
| Silver amalgam | Large cavities in back teeth | Metallic grey |
| Ceramic inlay/onlay | Large cavities needing extra strength | Tooth-coloured |
What Happens During Filling Treatment
- The dentist numbs the area with local anaesthesia if needed.
- Decayed tooth structure is gently removed using dental instruments.
- The cavity is cleaned and prepared to receive the filling material.
- The chosen filling material is placed, shaped, and hardened using a curing light for composites.
- The bite is checked and the filling is polished for a smooth finish.
Most simple fillings are completed in a single visit lasting 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity.
Typical Cost of Fillings in Gurugram
The cost of a filling depends on the material used, the size of the cavity, and the tooth's location. In Gurugram, patients can generally expect the following typical range for a single tooth filling.
- Silver amalgam filling: typical range of Rs 800 to Rs 1,800
- Glass ionomer filling: typical range of Rs 800 to Rs 2,000
- Composite (tooth-coloured) filling: typical range of Rs 1,500 to Rs 3,500
- Ceramic inlay or onlay: typical range of Rs 5,000 to Rs 12,000
These figures are general estimates and the exact cost can only be confirmed after an in-person examination and X-ray, since deeper cavities close to the nerve may need additional treatment such as a root canal.
Preventing Future Cavities
Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, cutting down on sugary snacks, and visiting your dentist every six months for a checkup are the most effective ways to prevent new cavities from forming. Early detection through regular visits also means smaller, simpler, and more affordable fillings.
If you have noticed a toothache, sensitivity, or a visible spot on a tooth, it is best not to wait. Early treatment is usually quicker, less expensive, and helps preserve more of your natural tooth structure.
Have questions about your teeth?
Artistree Dental and Cosmetic Clinic · Shop No 2, B Block Market, Mayfield Garden, Sector 51
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I have a cavity or just sensitivity?
Sensitivity alone can be caused by many things, but a cavity often comes with a visible spot, food catching in a tooth, or pain when biting. Only a dental exam and X-ray can confirm a cavity.
Do cavity fillings hurt?
The area is numbed with local anaesthesia before treatment, so the procedure itself is usually painless. Mild sensitivity to hot or cold for a few days afterward is normal.
Can a cavity heal on its own without a filling?
Very early demineralisation on the tooth surface can sometimes be reversed with fluoride and better hygiene, but once a cavity has formed a hole, it will not heal on its own and needs a filling.
How long do dental fillings last?
It depends on the material and how well you care for your teeth. Composite fillings typically last 5 to 10 years, while well-maintained fillings can last even longer with regular checkups.
Treatment costs mentioned on this page are indicative ranges for the Gurugram region. Your exact cost depends on your case and will be confirmed after a clinical examination at the clinic.