What happens when you get a filling?
Dental fillings are a common restorative dental procedure used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay (cavities) or minor fractures. The process of placing a dental filling typically involves the following steps:
Numbing the Tooth: Before the procedure begins, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. This ensures you won't feel any pain during the procedure.
Removal of Decay: Using a dental drill or laser, your dentist will carefully remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This step is crucial to prevent the decay from spreading further and to prepare the tooth for the filling.
Tooth Preparation: After the decay is removed, your dentist will prepare the tooth by cleaning and shaping the cavity to ensure it can securely hold the filling material. The tooth's surface will be free of debris and bacteria.
Selecting the Filling Material: There are various filling materials available, including amalgam (metal), composite resin (tooth-colored), porcelain, and glass ionomer. Your dentist will discuss your options and help you choose the most suitable material for your needs.
Filling Placement: The chosen filling material is placed into the prepared cavity. For tooth-colored composite resin fillings, the material is applied in layers and each layer is cured (hardened) with a special curing light. This process continues until the cavity is completely filled and shaped to match the natural contours of the tooth.
Bite Check: After the filling is placed, your dentist will check your bite (how your upper and lower teeth come together) to ensure it's even and comfortable. Adjustments may be made if necessary.
Polishing: The final step involves polishing the filling to make it smooth and to ensure it blends in with the surrounding tooth structure.
Post-Procedure Care: Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for the filled tooth and may recommend avoiding certain foods or activities for a short period to allow the filling to fully set and harden.
The entire dental filling procedure is typically relatively quick, taking 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the cavity and the type of filling used. After the procedure, you may experience some mild sensitivity or discomfort, which should subside within a few days. If you experience severe pain or other issues, it's essential to contact your dentist for further evaluation and possible adjustments to the filling. Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor the condition of fillings and overall oral health.
For more information please see our dental fillings FAQs.