Tooth Filling Process: What to Expect During Your Appointment

 Ever had a sore tooth, or maybe your dentist told you that you’ve got a little hole, a “cavity,” in one of your pearly whites? Chances are, you might need a tooth filling. Now, for some folks, the idea of getting a filling can sound a bit scary, but honestly, it’s one of the most common and straightforward treatments you can have at the dentist’s office.

In this blog post, we’re going to walk you through the entire tooth-filling process. We’ll break it down into easy steps so you know exactly what to expect during your appointment. Think of it like a friendly chat with your dentist, but in written form! 

So, let’s get to know the dental filling procedure.

What is a Tooth Filling?

Alright, let’s start with the basics. Imagine your tooth is like a solid little house. Sometimes, tiny bits of food and bacteria, if they’re left to hang around for too long, can create a little opening or a “cavity” in that house. This cavity is essentially a hole in your tooth, and if left unaddressed, it can grow larger, causing pain, sensitivity, or potentially leading to more severe issues in the future.

A tooth filling is like a special patch or material that your dentist uses to fill up that hole. It replaces the part of your tooth that’s been damaged by decay, helping to restore its shape, strength, and function. It seals off the area, stopping further decay and protecting the sensitive inner parts of your tooth. Easy as that!

Why is a Tooth Filling Necessary?

You might be wondering, “Why can’t I just leave the little hole there?” Well, that’s a fair question! The main reason a tooth filling treatment is necessary is to stop tooth decay in its tracks.

Think about it this way: if you have a small crack in the wall of your house, you wouldn’t just leave it, right? You’d patch it up before it gets bigger and causes more damage. It’s the same with your teeth. If you ignore a cavity:

• It will get bigger: Tooth decay is a bit like a bushfire; it spreads. A small cavity can quickly become a large one, potentially reaching the nerve of your tooth and causing intense pain.
• It can cause pain and sensitivity: As the decay progresses, it can expose the sensitive parts of your tooth, leading to sharp pain when you eat something hot, cold, sweet, or even when you just bite down.
• It can lead to infection: If decay reaches the pulp (the innermost part of your tooth where the nerves and blood vessels are), it can lead to a nasty infection, which might require a root canal or even tooth extraction.
• It helps you chew properly: A filling restores the tooth’s original shape, allowing you to chew your food properly without any discomfort.

So, getting a filling is a preventative measure, stopping small problems from turning into big, painful ones.

Types of Tooth Fillings

Good news! You’ve got options when it comes to the material used for your filling. Your dentist, like dentist Launceston, will discuss the best choice for you, taking into account the size of the cavity, where it is in your mouth, your budget, and your preferences. 

Here are the most common types of dental fillings:

• Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings): These are the traditional silver-coloured fillings that have been used for decades. They’re made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They’re super strong, durable, and relatively inexpensive. You’ll often see these in molars (back teeth) where they’re not visible.
• Composite Fillings (White Fillings): These are made from a tooth-coloured resin material, which means they can be matched perfectly to the shade of your natural teeth. They’re very popular, especially for front teeth or other visible areas, because they blend in so well. They bond directly to the tooth, which can sometimes mean less tooth structure needs to be removed.
• Gold Fillings: Although not as common these days, gold fillings are incredibly durable and can last a very long time. They’re custom-made in a lab and then cemented into place. They’re quite expensive, though, and obviously, they’re not tooth-coloured!
• Ceramic (Porcelain) Fillings: These are also tooth-coloured and are made from porcelain. They’re very aesthetic and resistant to staining. Like gold fillings, they are usually custom-made in a lab and then bonded to the tooth. They can be more brittle than composite fillings.
• Glass Ionomer Fillings: These fillings are made from a mixture of acrylic and glass. They’re often used for small fillings, in children’s teeth, or near the gum line. A big plus is that they release fluoride, which can help protect the tooth from further decay. They’re not as strong as composite or amalgam fillings.

Your dentist, like a good dentist in Launceston or anywhere else, will explain the pros and cons of each type for your specific situation.

The Tooth Filling Process: Step-by-Step

Alright, this is the bit you’ve been waiting for – what actually happens during your appointment! Don’t stress, it’s usually a pretty quick and painless tooth filling process.

1. Numbing the Area: First things first, your dentist will likely numb the area around the tooth that needs the filling. They’ll use a local anaesthetic, which is a bit like a tiny prick, but it quickly makes your tooth and the surrounding gum feel completely numb. This means you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. You might feel a bit of pressure or a pushing sensation, but no sharp pain.
2. Removing the Decay: Once the area is numb, your dentist will use a small drill to remove the decayed or damaged part of your tooth carefully. This is an exact process, and they’ll make sure to remove all the bad bits while keeping as much healthy tooth as possible. You might hear the sound of the drill, but remember, you won’t feel anything!
3. Preparing the Tooth: After the decay is removed, the dentist will shape the space to make sure the filling can fit properly and bond securely. If you’re getting a composite (white) filling, they’ll often use a special gel and then a bonding agent to help the filling stick to your tooth.
4. Applying the Filling Material: Now, it’s time for the actual filling!
   • For amalgam fillings: The dentist will mix the material and then pack it into the prepared cavity. They’ll then shape it to match the natural contours of your tooth.
   • For composite fillings: The material is applied in layers. After each layer, a special blue light (called a curing light) is used to harden or “cure” the material quickly. This light activates a chemical reaction that makes the filling strong and durable.
5. Shaping and Polishing: Once the filling material is in place, your dentist at Launceston Dentistry will carefully shape it and trim any excess material to ensure it fits best with your bite. We will probably ask you to bite down a few times to check that it’s comfortable and not too high. Finally, we will polish the filling to make it smooth and natural-looking.

And just like that, you’re done! The whole dental filling procedure can often be completed in a single appointment, usually taking anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and location of the filling.

What to Expect After a Tooth Filling

Once the anaesthetic wears off, you might feel a bit of sensitivity in the tooth or around the gum area. This is totally normal and usually settles down within a few days to a couple of weeks.

• Sensitivity: You might notice some sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure. This is common, especially with deeper fillings, as the tooth needs a bit of time to settle down after the work.
• Soreness: Your gum around the treated tooth might be a little sore from the injection or from being worked on. This usually resolves quickly.
• Bite Adjustment: Sometimes, even after the dentist checks your bite, the filling might feel a tiny bit high when you chew. If this happens, don’t hesitate to ring your dentist. It’s an easy fix, and they can usually adjust it in a quick follow-up appointment.

Stick to soft foods for a few hours after the anaesthetic wears off, just to avoid accidentally biting your numb cheek or tongue. It’s also a good idea to avoid really sticky or hard foods for the first day or so, especially with amalgam fillings, as they take a bit longer to harden fully.

How Long Do Tooth Fillings Last?

The lifespan of your filling depends on a few things: the type of material used, the size of the filling, where it is in your mouth, and, importantly, how well you look after your teeth!

• Amalgam fillings are often the most durable and can last 10-15 years, or even longer.
• Composite fillings typically last 5-10 years, though they can last longer with good care.
• Gold fillings can last 15-30 years or more.
• Ceramic fillings can last 10-15 years.
• Glass ionomer fillings usually have a shorter lifespan, often 5 years or less, due to their lower strength.

Regular dental check-ups are crucial because your dentist can monitor the condition of your fillings and spot any issues early.

Risks and Complications of Tooth Fillings

While tooth fillings are generally very safe and effective, like any medical procedure, there are a few potential risks or complications, though they are rare:

• Sensitivity: As mentioned, temporary sensitivity is common. If it lasts longer than a few weeks or gets worse, chat with your dentist.
• Pain: Persistent pain could indicate a deeper issue, like the decay being very close to the nerve, or a bite that needs adjusting.
• Allergic Reaction: While rare, some people can have an allergic reaction to the materials used in fillings.
• Nerve Damage: If the decay was very deep and close to the nerve, there’s a small chance the nerve could become irritated or damaged, potentially requiring a root canal.
• Cracked or Chipped Filling: Fillings can sometimes crack or chip, especially if you bite down on something very hard.
• Filling Falling Out: Occasionally, a filling can come loose or fall out. If this happens, keep the filling if you can and contact your dentist immediately.

When to Replace a Tooth Filling

Fillings don’t last forever, and sometimes they need a bit of a refresh. Your dentist will usually check your fillings at your regular check-ups. Here are some signs that a filling might need replacing:

• Wear and Tear: Over time, fillings can simply wear down, especially amalgam fillings that bear a lot of chewing force.
• Cracks or Chips: If you notice a crack or chip in your filling, or even in the tooth surrounding the filling, it’s time to get it checked.
• Loose Filling: If your filling feels wobbly or has fallen out, call your dentist pronto.
• New Decay Around the Filling: Decay can sometimes form around the edges of an existing filling. This is called “recurrent decay” and means the old filling needs to be removed and a new one placed.
• Staining (for composite fillings): While composite fillings are great for aesthetics, they can sometimes stain over time, making them less attractive.

If you experience any new pain, sensitivity, or notice anything unusual with an existing filling, it’s always best to give your dentist a call.

Conclusion

So there you have it, mate! The tooth filling process isn’t something to be scared of. It’s a common, effective, and relatively quick way to fix cavities and keep your smile healthy and strong. Knowing what to expect during your appointment can really help calm any nerves you might have.

Remember, prevention is always better than a cure! Regular brushing and flossing, along with visiting our dentist for routine check-ups and cleans, are your best mates in preventing cavities in the first place.

Ready to Get Your Smile Back on Track?

If you suspect you might have a cavity, or if it’s just been a while since your last dental check-up, don’t put it off any longer! Our friendly dentist at Launceston Dentistry can help you assess your oral health and guide you through the tooth-filling process if needed. 

Looking after your teeth now means a healthier, happier smile for years to come. Give our local dentist a call today!

Source:  Tooth Filling Process: What to Expect During Your Appointment