Dental Fillings in Stockholm – Tooth-Colored Cavity Repair
Dental fillings in Stockholm at Gloss & Floss Dental Care® in Södermalm are used to repair cavities, chipped teeth, worn tooth surfaces and old or broken fillings. Our focus is to restore the tooth in a way that feels comfortable, looks natural and supports long-term oral health.
A filling is often the right solution when the damage is limited enough for the tooth to be repaired conservatively. If the cavity is deeper, the tooth is cracked, the nerve is affected or the remaining tooth structure is weak, another treatment may be more suitable. That is why we always begin with diagnosis and clear treatment planning before recommending a restoration.
Do you have a cavity, broken filling or tooth sensitivity?
We can assess whether a tooth-colored filling, root canal treatment, crown or another restorative option is most appropriate for your tooth.
Last updated: May 2026
Quick answer: what is a dental filling?
A dental filling is a restorative treatment used to repair a tooth after decay, minor fracture, wear or replacement of an old filling. The damaged or decayed part is removed, the tooth is cleaned and shaped, and a tooth-colored material is placed, hardened, adjusted and polished.
At Gloss & Floss, most routine fillings are completed with modern tooth-colored composite materials. The goal is to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible while restoring function, comfort and appearance.
When do you need a dental filling?
A filling may be needed when the tooth has a cavity, a small fracture, a worn edge, a leaking old filling or a damaged area that can still be repaired without covering the whole tooth. Sometimes the problem is visible, but many cavities are found only during examination or imaging.
| Sign or symptom | What it may indicate | Recommended next step |
|---|---|---|
| Sensitivity to cold, sweet or hot drinks | Possible enamel damage, exposed dentin, early decay or a leaking filling. | Book an examination before the damage becomes deeper. |
| Visible dark spot, hole or rough area | Possible cavity, staining, chipped enamel or defective restoration. | Clinical assessment and, when needed, dental imaging. |
| Pain when chewing | Possible crack, high filling, deep decay, inflammation or bite overload. | Assessment to decide between filling, bite adjustment, crown or root canal treatment. |
| Old filling feels loose, broken or sharp | The filling may be leaking, fractured or no longer sealing the tooth properly. | Replacement or repair may be needed. |
| Sudden toothache or swelling | The problem may be deeper than a simple cavity. | Use our emergency dental care route if symptoms are urgent. |
Do all cavities need to be drilled and filled?
Not always. Very early enamel changes may sometimes be monitored and treated preventively if the surface is still intact and the risk can be controlled. If the decay has progressed into the tooth structure or the surface has broken down, a filling is usually needed to stop the damage and restore the tooth.
This is why diagnosis matters. We assess the size, depth, position and activity of the damage before deciding whether the best plan is prevention, monitoring, a filling or a more advanced restoration.
Our restorative principle
We aim to treat the tooth at the right level: not too little, not too late, and not more invasively than needed. A small cavity may only need a conservative filling, while a weakened tooth may need stronger protection.
Filling, root canal or crown – how we decide
One of the most important parts of restorative dentistry is choosing the right level of treatment. A filling can be excellent for smaller and moderate damage, but it is not always enough.
| Clinical situation | Possible treatment | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Small or moderate cavity | Tooth-colored filling | The tooth can often be repaired while preserving healthy structure. |
| Old filling with leakage or fracture | Replacement filling or larger restoration | The damaged filling is removed and the tooth is resealed. |
| Deep decay close to the nerve | Filling, protective base or root canal treatment | If the nerve is inflamed or infected, a simple filling may not solve the problem. |
| Large loss of tooth structure | Crown or indirect restoration | A large filling may not protect a weakened tooth sufficiently. |
| Front-tooth aesthetic shape issue | Composite repair, veneer planning or aesthetic dentistry | The choice depends on tooth structure, bite and aesthetic goals. |
Tooth-colored composite fillings
Composite fillings are modern, tooth-colored restorations that bond to the tooth and can be shaped to match your natural bite and appearance. They are commonly used for both front teeth and many back-tooth restorations when the tooth structure and bite forces are suitable.
The quality of a composite filling depends not only on the material, but also on diagnosis, moisture control, careful preparation, layering, light curing, polishing and bite adjustment. These steps help the filling feel smooth, seal properly and function comfortably.
| Material | Typical use | Patient benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Composite | Most routine tooth-colored fillings for cavities, chips and old filling replacement. | Natural appearance, mercury-free, bonds to the tooth and can be repaired in many cases. |
| Glass ionomer / temporary materials | Selected temporary, protective or specific clinical situations. | Can be useful when moisture control, timing or tooth condition requires a different strategy. |
| Ceramic / indirect restorations | Larger defects where a direct filling may not be strong enough. | Can provide stronger long-term coverage when more tooth structure is missing. |
| Amalgam replacement | Old amalgam fillings that are defective, cracked, leaking or need planned replacement. | Allows restoration with modern tooth-colored alternatives when replacement is clinically justified. |
Step-by-step: how a dental filling is done
The procedure is usually straightforward, but every tooth is different. We adapt the treatment to the location of the cavity, depth of the damage, bite forces and your comfort level.
- Examination: we assess the tooth, symptoms, existing fillings and gum condition.
- Dental imaging when needed: dental imaging can help detect decay between teeth or under old restorations.
- Local anaesthesia: anaesthesia is used when needed so the treatment can be performed comfortably.
- Tooth preparation: decay, weak enamel or damaged filling material is carefully removed.
- Cleaning and isolation: the tooth is cleaned and kept as dry as possible for reliable bonding.
- Composite placement: tooth-colored material is placed in layers and hardened with curing light.
- Shaping and polishing: the filling is shaped to match the tooth and polished for a smooth surface.
- Bite adjustment: we check that the filling does not feel too high when you bite.
- Aftercare advice: you receive guidance on eating, sensitivity and when to contact us.
Dental fear or sensitivity?
If you feel anxious about treatment, tell us before we start. We can adapt the pace, explain each step and discuss support options. You can also read more about dental fear and sedation for relaxed dentistry.
Replacing old, leaking or broken fillings
Old fillings do not always need replacement simply because they are old. However, replacement may be needed if the filling is cracked, leaking, loose, worn down, difficult to clean around or if decay has developed underneath.
We assess whether the filling can be repaired, replaced with a new composite filling, or whether the tooth needs stronger protection. In some cases, a large old filling may have left the tooth too weak for another direct filling, and a crown or other indirect restoration may be safer long term.
Do not ignore a lost filling
If a filling falls out, the tooth may be more exposed to bacteria, sensitivity and fracture. Book an assessment, especially if the tooth is painful, sharp, difficult to chew on or sensitive to cold or sweets.
Aftercare: eating, numbness, sensitivity and bite
Most patients return to normal routines quickly after a filling. The exact advice depends on the size and depth of the restoration, whether anaesthesia was used and how the tooth felt before treatment.
| Aftercare question | General guidance | When to contact us |
|---|---|---|
| Can I eat after a filling? | Composite fillings harden immediately, but avoid chewing while your mouth is still numb. | If chewing feels uncomfortable after the numbness is gone. |
| Is sensitivity normal? | Mild sensitivity to cold or pressure can occur after a deeper filling and often improves gradually. | If sensitivity worsens, lasts for a long time or becomes spontaneous pain. |
| What if the filling feels too high? | A high bite can make the tooth sore when chewing. | Contact us for a simple bite adjustment. |
| Can I floss? | Yes, but floss gently. The contact between teeth should feel smooth. | If floss tears, gets stuck or the edge feels rough. |
| How do I protect the filling? | Brush, clean between teeth and avoid repeatedly biting very hard objects. | If the filling chips, cracks or feels loose. |
How long do composite fillings last?
Composite fillings can last for many years, but lifespan varies. Important factors include cavity size, tooth position, bite force, oral hygiene, diet, grinding habits, moisture control during placement and regular dental maintenance.
Smaller fillings often have a better long-term prognosis than very large fillings. If you grind your teeth, clench your jaw or frequently break restorations, a custom bite rail may help protect both teeth and fillings.
Maintenance matters
Fillings do not make a tooth immune to new decay. Regular check-ups, good home care and professional hygiene support through dental hygienist treatments help protect the margins around the filling.
Dental filling cost in Stockholm
The cost of a filling depends on the tooth, number of surfaces, size of the cavity, depth of the damage, need for imaging, material choice and whether additional treatment is required. A small one-surface filling is different from a large restoration on a heavily weakened molar.
We provide clear information before treatment and, when needed, a written estimate. You can also review our English page for dental care prices.
| Factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Size of the cavity | Larger cavities take more time and material and may require more complex shaping. |
| Number of tooth surfaces | A filling between teeth or across several surfaces is more complex than a small surface repair. |
| Depth of decay | Deep decay may require extra protection, closer follow-up or root canal assessment. |
| Old filling replacement | Removing defective material and rebuilding the tooth can be more involved than a first-time filling. |
| Need for additional treatment | If the tooth is cracked, infected or heavily weakened, root canal treatment or a crown may be needed instead. |
Why choose Gloss & Floss for dental fillings in Stockholm?
A good filling should do more than close a hole. It should be comfortable, cleanable, well-sealed, carefully shaped and planned with the tooth’s long-term prognosis in mind. At Gloss & Floss Dental Care® in Södermalm, we combine modern restorative dentistry with a calm Dental-SPA environment and clear English-speaking communication.
| Diagnosis before treatment | We assess whether the tooth needs prevention, filling, root canal treatment, crown or another option. |
| Tooth-colored restorations | We use modern composite materials for a natural appearance when clinically suitable. |
| Conservative preparation | Healthy tooth structure is preserved as much as possible. |
| Comfort-focused care | Local anaesthesia, calm communication and a gentle approach help make treatment easier. |
| Clear treatment planning | You receive a transparent explanation of the problem, options and expected cost before proceeding. |
| Long-term thinking | We consider bite, grinding, hygiene and follow-up so the restoration has better conditions to last. |
Book a dental filling assessment in Stockholm
Early diagnosis can prevent a small cavity from becoming a larger dental problem. If you have sensitivity, a broken filling, visible cavity or toothache, we can help you choose the right next step.
Related treatments and pages
Frequently asked questions about dental fillings
How do I know if I need a dental filling?
You may need a filling if you have a cavity, visible hole, broken tooth edge, sensitivity, a leaking old filling or discomfort when chewing. A dental examination and sometimes imaging are needed to confirm the right treatment.
Does getting a filling hurt?
Dental fillings are normally performed with local anaesthesia when needed, so the treatment should be comfortable. You may feel pressure or vibration, but not sharp pain during the procedure.
How long does a composite filling last?
Composite fillings can last for many years, but the lifespan depends on cavity size, bite force, oral hygiene, tooth position, diet and whether you grind your teeth.
Can I eat after a dental filling?
Composite fillings harden immediately, but you should avoid chewing while your mouth is still numb. This helps prevent accidental biting of the cheek, tongue or lip.
Is sensitivity normal after a filling?
Mild sensitivity can occur after a deep or larger filling and often improves gradually. If sensitivity worsens, becomes spontaneous pain or does not settle, the tooth should be checked.
What does a dental filling cost in Stockholm?
The cost depends on the tooth, size of the cavity, number of surfaces, material and whether additional treatment is needed. We provide clear cost information before treatment.
Can an old filling be replaced?
Yes. Old fillings can be replaced when they are cracked, leaking, loose, worn down or have decay underneath. The tooth is assessed first to decide whether another filling is enough or a stronger restoration is needed.
What happens if a filling falls out?
If a filling falls out, the tooth may become sensitive, sharp or more vulnerable to decay and fracture. It is best to book an assessment rather than waiting, especially if there is pain or sensitivity.
When is a filling not enough?
A filling may not be enough if the tooth has deep decay, nerve infection, a large crack or too little remaining structure. In those cases, root canal treatment, a crown or another restorative solution may be more suitable.
Do I need a root canal or just a filling?
A filling may be enough when the damage is limited to the outer tooth structure. If the nerve is inflamed or infected, root canal treatment may be needed to save the tooth.
Is a crown better than a large filling?
Sometimes. If a tooth is heavily weakened, a crown may provide better protection than a very large filling. The best option depends on remaining tooth structure, bite and long-term prognosis.
Are tooth-colored fillings strong enough for back teeth?
Tooth-colored composite fillings can be suitable for many back teeth, especially when the cavity is small or moderate. For very large defects or heavy bite forces, a stronger restoration may be recommended.
Can composite fillings be whitened?
No. Composite fillings do not whiten like natural enamel. If you plan teeth whitening, it may be better to discuss the timing before changing visible front-tooth fillings.
Are dental fillings covered by Swedish dental insurance?
Many restorative treatments may be partly covered depending on your age, treatment plan and dental support rules. We can explain the estimated cost before treatment starts.
