Tooth Filling in Dubai

Cavities do not always cause pain — many are invisible to the naked eye and only detectable on X-rays. If you experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, notice a dark spot on a tooth, or feel food consistently trapping in the same area, a filling may be needed. A routine check-up at The Nook includes digital X-rays so we can diagnose decay at its earliest stage, when a small, simple filling is all that is required.

We exclusively use mercury-free, tooth-coloured restorations. For small to medium cavities, composite resin fillings are matched precisely to your natural tooth shade and completed in a single visit. For larger cavities where a direct filling may not provide sufficient strength, we recommend ceramic inlays or onlays — custom-fabricated restorations that are more durable and aesthetically refined. Glass ionomer cement is used for paediatric cases or sub-gingival lesions where fluoride release provides additional protection.

No. Before any treatment begins, we apply a topical numbing gel to the gum, followed by a slow, fine-needle local anaesthetic injection — most patients feel nothing more than light pressure. For very superficial cavities, anaesthetic may not be required at all. If you experience dental anxiety, let our team know: we can discuss comfort options including breaks on request and, where indicated, inhalation sedation.

Always whiten first. Composite resin and ceramic materials do not respond to whitening agents — once a filling is placed, its shade is fixed. By whitening beforehand, your dentist can precisely shade-match the new restoration to your brighter smile, ensuring a seamless, natural result. If you whiten after, the surrounding teeth will lighten but the filling will remain its original colour, creating an obvious mismatch.

Lifespan varies by material and patient habits. A well-placed composite filling lasts 7 to 10 years on average, with many modern nano-hybrid composites exceeding 10 years. Ceramic inlays last 10 to 15 years, and gold restorations 15 to 30 years. The main factors affecting longevity are oral hygiene, diet, and bruxism (teeth grinding). Patients who grind at night are advised to wear a custom nightguard to protect their restorations. Regular 6-month check-ups allow us to monitor fillings and replace them before minor deterioration becomes a larger problem.

Yes. If an existing amalgam filling is cracked, leaking, or showing decay around its margins, replacement with a composite or ceramic restoration is clinically indicated. If the filling is still intact and functional, there is no medical urgency — but many patients choose replacement for aesthetic reasons or peace of mind regarding mercury-free dentistry. At The Nook, all new restorations are exclusively tooth-coloured.

The cost of a filling at The Nook depends on the material chosen and the size of the cavity (measured in surfaces). Composite fillings are the most accessible option, while ceramic inlays represent a longer-term investment for larger restorations. Our team will provide a clear, itemised cost estimate during your consultation — before any treatment begins. Most comprehensive insurance plans in the UAE cover basic composite fillings; our reception team will verify your coverage upfront.

A single direct composite filling typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. A large multi-surface filling may extend to 60 minutes. If you need multiple fillings, we can plan them efficiently across one or two visits depending on your preference. Ceramic inlays require two appointments: the first for preparation and a digital impression (30–45 min), and a second visit approximately one week later for bonding (30 min).

With composite fillings, the material is fully hardened at the time of your appointment using our LED curing light, so there is no extended waiting period. Wait until the local anaesthetic has fully worn off (approximately 2 to 4 hours) before eating on the treated side, to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. For the first 24 hours, favour soft foods and avoid anything very hard, sticky, or excessively hot or cold. Mild sensitivity to temperature is normal for a few days and resolves on its own.