Dental decay is a process whereby the bacteria on our teeth use the sugars that we consume through our food to produce acid which slowly and gradually destroy the enamel on our teeth and form cavity. If the tooth is left untreated bacteria will continue to destroy the enamel and the cavity will increase, which may result in sensitivity. You may experience sensitivity when drinking hot/cold liquids or when eating something sweet. These symptoms should not be ignored, as they indicate that a cavity is forming and treatment is needed.
The dentist will use specialist tools to clean the cavity from all the bacteria and damaged tooth structure. Thereafter, the dentist will place a filling material into the cavity to restore the form of the tooth and to prevent any new bacteria from getting in.
No, every procedure should be done under local anesthesia (numbing the tooth), so you will not feel any pain.
It depends on various factors such as: the material type, the technique and the size of the cavity. An ideal filling should last for at least 5 years. Reviewing of placed fillings should be done at every regular check-up (6-12months) for any defects. If any substantial defect is noted, meaning that a new cavity is likely to form, then replacement of the filling must be done. When a defected filling is not replaced, secondary-caries can develop leading to a new cavity under the existing restoration.