Dental Fillings in Singapore
When is a dental filling needed?
A filling is needed when decay, a small fracture, or a worn area has affected the tooth and the damaged part needs to be removed and rebuilt. Early treatment often allows more of the natural tooth to be preserved.
A filling is usually suitable when:
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Decay is detected before it reaches the nerve
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A small chip or fracture has affected part of the tooth
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An old filling has failed and needs replacing
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Sensitivity is linked to a small area of structural loss
A filling is usually not enough when:
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A large portion of the tooth is already missing
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A crack extends through one or more cusps
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The nerve is involved and root canal treatment is needed
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Remaining tooth structure cannot support normal chewing forces
If you are not sure which applies to you, WhatsApp us or a short clinical exam will tell you which category your tooth falls into.
What is a dental filling?
A dental filling restores a tooth after decay or damage has been removed, by rebuilding the space with a tooth-coloured material that bonds directly to the remaining enamel and dentine.
Because the material bonds to the tooth itself rather than sitting on top of it, less of the natural tooth needs to be removed to place the filling compared to older techniques. This bonded approach also helps the remaining tooth structure stay supported.
Treatment room at Penn Pacific Dental Center, 160 Robinson Road
What material is used for fillings at Penn Pacific Dental Center?
Penn Pacific Dental Center places tooth-coloured composite fillings only. We do not place metal amalgam fillings.
Composite bonds directly to the tooth, can be shaded to match the surrounding enamel, and is suitable for both front and back teeth depending on the size and location of the cavity. The shade is selected before placement so the filling blends with the rest of the tooth.
If shade matching against discoloured or stained teeth is a concern, teeth whitening is sometimes discussed before a visible filling is placed, so the final shade match is more accurate.
What happens during a filling appointment?
A filling appointment follows the same sequence regardless of the size of the cavity, though the time taken varies.
Assessment
The tooth is examined and an X-ray is taken if needed to confirm the depth and extent of the decay before any treatment begins.
Removal of damaged tooth structure
Decayed or damaged enamel and dentine are removed, keeping as much healthy tooth structure as possible. Local anaesthesia is used when needed to keep the tooth comfortable during this step.
Placement and shaping
The composite material is placed in layers, shaped to match the tooth's natural contour, then hardened and polished so the bite feels even.
After the appointment
Mild sensitivity to cold or pressure can occur for a few days and usually settles on its own. If sensitivity persists beyond one to two weeks or gets worse, the bite may need a small adjustment, and you should come back in to have it checked.
When is a crown needed instead of a filling?
A crown is needed instead of a filling when too little healthy tooth structure remains for a filling to be supported safely under normal biting force.
This usually applies when a large portion of the tooth has already been lost to decay or fracture, when a crack extends through one or more cusps, or when the tooth has previously had root canal treatment and the remaining structure has become more brittle over time.
In these situations a dental crown covers and protects the tooth. Whether a filling or a crown applies to your tooth can only be confirmed after a clinical exam.
How much does a filling cost in Singapore?
At Penn Pacific Dental Center, tooth-coloured fillings typically start from $250. The final cost depends on the size of the cavity, the tooth involved, and how many tooth surfaces need to be restored.
A small filling on one surface usually costs less than a larger filling on a back tooth involving multiple surfaces. The exact cost is confirmed only after the dentist examines the tooth and, where needed, takes an X-ray to check how deep the decay extends.
If the tooth is suitable for a filling, we will explain the treatment and fee before starting. If the decay is too deep, or if the tooth is cracked or weakened, we may discuss other options such as a crown or root canal treatment instead.
New patients who are unsure whether they need a filling can book a consultation or our Wellness Package first. The filling fee is quoted separately after the tooth has been assessed.
Are fillings covered by insurance or Medisave?
Routine fillings are generally not claimable under standard Medisave, as Medisave dental coverage is limited to specific procedures. Penn Pacific Dental Center accepts MHC Asia, Alliance Medinet, SODA by DA, and Inova Care for eligible treatments.
If you are unsure whether your plan covers your filling, WhatsApp us before your appointment and we will check for you.
Your dentists at Penn Pacific
Dr. Barry Yu
Dr. Barry Yu also sees patients for fillings and general restorative care, alongside his clinical focus on root canal treatment. He trained at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine.
Dr. Chrissie Lam
Dr. Chrissie Lam focuses on general, preventive, and restorative dental care, including fillings, crowns, scaling and polishing, and teeth whitening. She holds a degree in Nutritional Science from UC Berkeley and trained in dentistry at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, and has practised in Singapore since 2013.
Penn Pacific Dental Center is at 160 Robinson Road in Singapore's CBD, a short walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT.
Common questions about dental fillings
How do I know if I need a filling?
A filling may be needed when decay, a small fracture, or structural wear is found during an exam. Some cavities cause no pain in the early stages, which is why routine check-ups matter for catching them early.
Does getting a filling hurt?
Most fillings are well tolerated. Local anaesthesia is used when needed, and most patients feel pressure rather than pain during the procedure.
How long do composite fillings last?
A composite filling can last many years depending on its size, location, and how it is cared for. Regular check-ups help catch wear or leakage before it becomes a bigger problem.
Why does my tooth feel sensitive after a filling?
Mild sensitivity to cold or pressure can occur for a few days after a filling and usually settles on its own. If it lasts longer than one to two weeks or gets worse, the bite may need adjusting.
What is the difference between a filling and a crown?
A filling restores a smaller area of a tooth. A crown covers the whole tooth when too much structure has been lost for a filling to be supported safely. Which one applies depends on how much healthy tooth remains.
Can a filling be done on the same day as my consultation?
In many cases, yes. If there is enough time and no additional treatment planning is required, a filling can often be completed at the same visit. This depends on the complexity of the case and appointment availability.
Are fillings covered by Medisave or insurance?
Routine fillings are generally not Medisave-claimable, but many corporate dental plans cover them depending on your policy. WhatsApp us before your appointment and we will check your coverage.
How much does my first visit cost?
New patients can book our Wellness Package at $119, which includes a consultation, scaling and polishing, and fluoride treatment. If you are coming in specifically for a filling, that fee is quoted separately once the tooth has been assessed.
Is Penn Pacific Dental Center near Tanjong Pagar MRT?
Yes. The clinic is at 160 Robinson Road, #05-14 SBF Center, a short walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT (East-West Line), and also accessible from Shenton Way MRT and Telok Ayer MRT.