Hearing you need a filling can sound more alarming than it actually is. For most people, it’s one of the more routine dental treatments around, and knowing what actually happens can take a lot of the mystery, and the nerves, out of it. Below is a straightforward look at a typical dental filling procedure, from the first check to walking out the door, based on general guidance from the Australian Dental Association.
Yes, a Filling Is a Fairly Routine, Well-Understood Procedure
- Fillings repair a tooth damaged by decay, wear or minor trauma
- Local anaesthetic is used, so discomfort during the procedure is usually minimal
- Most fillings are completed in a single visit
- Composite (tooth-coloured) filling material is common for both front and back teeth
- Some sensitivity afterwards is normal and generally settles within a few days
What Happens During a Filling Process, From Start to Finish
Understanding what happens during a filling process can make the whole thing feel far less daunting. Your dentist will usually begin by checking the tooth, sometimes with an X-ray, to confirm the extent of the decay or damage before deciding on the right approach.
Once that’s confirmed, the actual filling process tends to follow a fairly predictable sequence, regardless of which tooth is involved.
The Cavity Filling Steps, Explained Simply
Numbing the Area
If needed, your dentist will apply a local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding gum. This is usually the part people worry about most, though the needle itself is often the quickest part of the whole appointment.
Removing the Decay
Using a drill or similar tool, your dentist removes the decayed or damaged part of the tooth. This step clears the way for the filling material to bond properly and helps prevent the decay from spreading further.
Placing and Shaping the Filling
The filling material is placed into the cleaned cavity and shaped to match your natural tooth. For a composite filling process, a tooth-coloured resin is applied in layers and hardened with a curing light as it goes.
Checking Your Bite
Once the filling is in place, your dentist will ask you to bite down so they can check the height and adjust it if needed. This step helps make sure the filling feels comfortable once the anaesthetic wears off.
What Does a Composite Filling Process Involve, Compared to Other Materials?
Composite resin is one of the more common filling materials used today, largely because it can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth. Unlike some other materials, composite is bonded directly to the tooth’s surface, which can mean less of the natural tooth structure needs to be removed. Your dentist will talk you through which material may be suitable for your particular tooth and situation, since this can vary depending on the location and size of the cavity.
According to Healthdirect Australia, dental professionals choose filling materials based on a range of factors, and no single material suits every situation.
What to Expect After Your Filling
- Mild sensitivity to hot, cold or pressure for a few days is common and usually settles on its own
- It’s normal for the tooth to feel slightly different until you get used to the new shape
- Avoid chewing on the filled tooth until any numbness has fully worn off, to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue
- If sensitivity persists beyond a week or two, it’s worth checking in with your dentist
Fillings don’t last forever, and your dentist will keep an eye on older fillings at your regular check-ups to see whether they need attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Getting a Filling Hurt?
Most people find the discomfort minimal thanks to local anaesthetic, though everyone’s experience and pain tolerance is a little different. Talk to your dentist if you’re feeling anxious about it, as there are ways to help you feel more comfortable.
How Long Does a Filling Procedure Take?
A single filling often takes somewhere between 20 and 60 minutes, though this can vary depending on the size and location of the cavity and how many teeth need treatment.
Can I Eat Straight After Getting a Filling?
It’s worth waiting until any numbness has worn off before eating, which can take a couple of hours depending on the anaesthetic used. Your dentist can give you more specific guidance based on your treatment.
How Long Do Fillings Typically Last?
This varies quite a bit depending on the material used, the location of the filling and individual habits like grinding or diet. Regular check-ups are a helpful way to monitor how a filling is holding up over time.
What Happens if I Ignore a Cavity Instead of Getting a Filling?
Leaving a cavity untreated can allow the decay to spread further into the tooth, which may eventually lead to pain or a dental emergency. It’s worth discussing your specific situation with your dentist, since the right course of action depends on individual circumstances.
Book a Filling Check-Up With Ashfield Family Dental
If you think you might need a filling, or it’s simply been a while since your last check-up, getting it looked at sooner rather than later tends to make for a more straightforward dental filling procedure. Ashfield Family Dental welcomes patients from Ashfield, Summer Hill and surrounding suburbs, and the team is happy to talk you through your options before any treatment begins. You can book online or get in touch to arrange a check-up.
Dr. Johnson Tang, a dentist in Ashfield, earned his Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the University of Adelaide. Fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, he is known for his gentle, patient-centered approach. Dr. Johnson Tang continues to expand his expertise through courses in implant dentistry and orthodontics to offer comprehensive care.
