A dental filling is a common procedure to fix a cavity. A typical dental filling is a common procedure that typically takes less than an hour. The exact time depends on several factors, including the size and location of your cavity and the type of filling material.
Knowing what happens during your appointment can make the process feel quick and easy. We’ll walk you through the timeline and what to expect from our dental exams and cleanings when you visit our dentist in NE Calgary.
The Simple Answer: How Much Time To Set Aside
For most people, a filling appointment is surprisingly short. We focus on making your visit comfortable and efficient from start to finish. Here’s a general idea of how much time you may need.
A Simple Filling
A single, straightforward filling often takes between 20 minutes to an hour, including the time needed to numb the area, prepare the tooth, and place the filling. Our goal is to get you in and out quickly.
Multiple or More Complex Fillings
If you need more than one filling, your appointment may take a bit longer. The same is true if a cavity is in a spot that’s harder to reach. In some cases, your dentist might suggest two separate visits to help keep you comfortable.
A Step-by-Step Look at the Filling Process
Your visit to our dental clinic for a filling follows a few clear steps. We want you to feel informed and at ease during the entire procedure. Here’s a simple breakdown of what happens.
- A Quick Look & Check-Up: First, your dentist will look at the tooth and may take an X-ray to see the cavity clearly. This initial step is part of a thorough examination that helps catch problems early.
- Numb the Area: We use a local anesthetic to numb your tooth and surrounding gum tissue to help you stay comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Remove the Decay: Your dentist will carefully and gently remove the decayed portion of your tooth.
- Place the New Filling: The clean space is then filled with a special dental material to restore and protect your tooth, similar to how dental crowns and bridges are used to restore more severely damaged teeth.
- Polish & Finish: Finally, the new filling is shaped and polished to make sure your bite feels natural and comfortable.
What Type of Filling Will You Get?
There are a few different materials we can use for fillings. We can discuss your options and help you choose what works for your tooth.
Tooth-Coloured Fillings
These fillings are made of a composite resin that matches the colour of your natural teeth. They are applied in layers and hardened with a special light. This process may take slightly longer, but it can yield a cosmetic result.
Silver-Coloured Fillings
Also known as amalgam fillings, these are very strong and durable. They are often a bit quicker to place than tooth-coloured fillings. They are a reliable choice for molars in the back of your mouth.
What To Expect During & After Your Appointment
It’s normal to have questions about what to expect before, during, and after your filling. Our team is here to make your experience as smooth as possible. Here’s what you should know to feel prepared.
Does a Filling Hurt?
Because your dentist numbs the area, you should not feel any pain during the procedure. You may experience slight pressure or vibration, but it is typically not uncomfortable. Your comfort is our priority, and for patients who are anxious, we offer sedation dentistry options for a more relaxed experience.
How Long Will Your Mouth Be Numb?
The numbness from the anesthetic usually lasts for 1 to 3 hours after you leave the clinic. It’s a good idea to be careful not to bite your cheek or tongue while the area is still numb.
Care Tips After Your Tooth Filling
A little care goes a long way after your appointment. To help your new filling settle in properly, here are a few simple tips:
- Wait until the numbness has completely worn off before you eat.
- Avoid very hot or cold foods for a day or two if your tooth feels sensitive.
- Avoid chewing very hard or sticky foods with the new filling for the first 24 hours.
- Continue to brush and floss gently around the new filling.
Your Questions About Fillings Answered
We believe in giving you the information you need to make well-informed choices about your oral health. Here are answers to a few more common questions we receive about fillings.
How Do You Know If You Need a Filling?
Sometimes you can see a cavity, but other times the signs are more subtle. It’s a good idea to schedule a check-up if you notice any of these things:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet things
- A dull or sharp ache in one of your teeth, which could indicate a dental emergency if severe
- A small hole or dark spot on your tooth
- Pain when you bite or chew
How Long Does a Filling Last?
The lifespan of a filling depends on the material and how well you care for your teeth. Tooth-coloured fillings can last for many years with good oral hygiene. Silver-coloured fillings can often last even longer.
What About Fillings for Children?
The process for children is very similar to the one for adults. Our approach to children’s dentistry aims to create a calm, friendly environment for our younger visitors. Having entertainment like Netflix available can also help children feel more relaxed during their appointment.
How Rundle Dental Can Help You
At Rundle Dental, we make your care simple and accessible. We offer services in multiple languages, including English, French, Mandarin, Cantonese, Tagalog, and Thai. We also accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) to help you get the treatment you need. Book your appointment online or call us today!
