Tooth Cavity Filling: What To Expect

If you have a cavity, there is no cause to worry. The typical treatment option available is to fill up the cavity. The procedure entails substituting decayed tooth material with fillings, which can be made from resin, ionomers, gold, amalgam, or ceramics.

What Should I Expect?

This may seem daunting, but the procedure for tooth cavity filling is relatively easy and forthright and is performed in the dentist’s office. If you have an appointment, you should plan to be with the dentist for at least an hour. Within this time, the dentist will have sufficient time to perform x-rays, if required, discuss the process with you and perform the operation.

First, the dentist will desensitize your mouth

Before the dentist commences cavity filling, your gums, teeth, and adjoining skin will be rendered numb to lessen pain during the process. They will do this by rubbing a jelly-like substance to the teeth and its surrounding. This will make you numb, then the gum of the affected tooth will be injected with an anesthetic. Depending on the dentist, you may also be given laughing gas (nitrous oxide) to calm you down if you usually get nervous at the dentist. 

Afterward, your teeth may get a rubber dam

In some situations, the dentist may place a rubber sheet in your mouth to enable easy access to the affected tooth. It also helps to stop liquid or tooth chips from getting into your mouth or down your throat.

They will get rid of the decay

Afterward, the dentist will drill out the decayed material in the tooth using a laser, drill, or air abrasion tool. This part may sound scary, and painful, but the anesthetics and numbing applied at the start will significantly reduce the pain. When your tooth is entirely free of decay, the dentist will proceed to clean the area carefully.

Lastly, the cavity gets a filling

The process of removing the decayed material leaves a space in the tooth. At the stage, the dentist will fill the space up with any of the filling material mentioned above. The hole has to be filled to prevent bacteria buildup in the area and shield your teeth from further decay.

After filling the cavity, they will file and smooth the tooth to ensure it does not interfere with your chewing. This process will be complete in a few minutes. 

After completing the process, the numbness in your mouth will persist for another couple of hours until the anesthetic wears off. During that period, do not chew using the affected tooth or eat hot meals, so you do not cause injury to yourself. You should note that the filled tooth may be sensitive to cold and heat for several days or a week after the operation. Usually, the sensitivity will disappear on its own.

Final Note

Tooth cavity filling typically poses no significant risk, however, you should stay in touch with your dentist if you have inquires or complications. They will be glad to address your worries. Ensure you follow every recommendation proffered by the dentist.

We are always ready to answer any qeustions you may have and help guide you in making the best decision. Conctact us today! 

Request a dental appointment here: https://www.arcdentistry.com or call Arc Advanced Dentistry & Cosmetics at (516) 301-9038 for an appointment in our Long Beach dental office.

Recent Posts

What Is The Dental Restoration Process For Veneers?

Dental restorationss are a great way to improve oral health and the way the smile appears. One of the most common dental restoration options is dental veneer placement. According to WebMD, dental veneers are routinely used to fix teeth that are discolored, worn down, chipped, misaligned and even severely gapped, all of which classify as…

Why Is Tooth Enamel Important?

Tooth enamel is often forgotten about, as it is difficult for the average person to visually distinguish it from the rest of the tooth. Enamel is best described as a thin calcified material that is incredibly sturdy. Enamel is strong but not indestructible. The problem is, you might not find out your tooth enamel is…

What Can Happen If You Don't Treat A Chipped Tooth?

If you have a chipped tooth, you should contact us as soon as possible. Not treating a chipped tooth in a timely manner will cause significant problems down the line.Here is a look at how the failure to seek proper treatment for a chipped tooth will hinder your oral health.Without professional treatment, the broken tooth…

Visit Our Dental Office For Dental Restorations

If you damage a tooth, it is critical that you visit our dentist office as soon as possible. The last thing you want to do is deal with the pain and discomfort that comes from having a cracked or chipped tooth.Fortunately, we make it easy for you to have your tooth restored so you can…


Recent Posts

General Dentistry Restoration Options: Dental Bridge

General Dentistry Restoration Options: Dental Bridge

General dentistry happens to include restoring teeth that are in bad shape or completely missing. Of course, a restoration is meant to bring the tooth back to its original shape, form, and function. However, in some cases, this is not all the way possible, making it necessary to undergo something like a dental bridge placement.…

Benefits Of Dental Bridges

3 Benefits Of Dental Bridges

A dental bridge can help restore your dental health and appearance. Tooth loss can cause more dental problems. Replacing the missing teeth can restore your smile and improve your dental health. Getting this dental restoration might be the tooth loss solution you need. Here are the three basic dental bridge benefits you must consider.Losing at…