A dental filling is a minor procedure typically used to repair or restore teeth damaged by minor cavities or fractures. An untreated tooth is a potential problem because the decay eats away at the enamel, creating a hole in the tooth. This leaves the tooth vulnerable to infection and can even result in tooth loss. But if the patient undergoes a dental filling procedure, the filling seals the tooth and restores its strength. However, many patients put off going to the dentist because of the thought of undergoing a painful procedure. Are dental fillings painful? This is the usual question patients ask their dentists. The good news is that due to the many advancements in dental techniques and anesthesia, the procedure is simple, quick, and less painful than patients usually imagine. This post will help you understand what to expect in terms of pain and how your dentist can ensure your comfort.
Are Dental Fillings Painful?
A dental filling procedure usually follows the following steps:
Numbing the Area
Your dentist will apply a local anaesthetic to the area so that you do not feel pain during the procedure. This is typically done using a small injection. Your dentist may also use a numbing gel before injecting the anaesthesia.
Removing Decay
Using a dental drill or laser, the dentist will clean out the decayed portion of the tooth.
Placing the Filling Material
Composite resin, amalgam, or ceramic is used to fill the cleaned cavity.
Shaping and Polishing
Your dentist will shape the filling to match your bite and will then polish it for a smooth finish.
Do Fillings Hurt?
Fillings are not usually painful. Most patients experience feeling mild pressure, mild discomfort, or vibrations from the dental tools, but not actual pain.
The slight discomfort felt by patients usually depends on:
The Size and Depth of the Cavity
Deeper cavities that are closer to the nerve of the tooth may need more work. This can lead to post-treatment sensitivity.
Individual Pain Tolerance
Because everyone’s threshold for pain and discomfort is different, patients’ experiences also vary.
Numbing Effectiveness
You may feel a sharp sensation if the anesthesia is not fully effective. Dentists usually check with their patients, and when told, they can always administer more.
Is There Pain After the Procedure?
It is good to know that dentists always prioritize their patients’ comfort. The following are the ways in which they can keep the process nearly painless even after the procedure:
- Applying local anesthesia to numb the tooth and the surrounding gum
- High-speed drills and lasers for a quicker and gentler process
- Sedation dentistry for patients who suffer from high anxiety levels
- Using tooth-colored resins that bond directly to the tooth, lessening the need to remove more of the natural tooth structure
Tips to Minimize Pain and Anxiety
- Be honest with your dentist. Talk to him about your fears and anxiety.
- Ask your dentist about sedation or other options that may be available to you if you have a low pain threshold.
- Practice relaxation techniques to manage your stress and anxiety.
- Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to prevent prolonged sensitivity.
If you are wondering if dental fillings are painful, in most cases, the answer is no. It is a quick and routine procedure. The dentist uses anesthesia to numb you and keep you comfortable during the process. Although some patients experience mild sensitivity, it is uncommon to hear patients who experience severe pain. Dentists will always ensure that you are as comfortable as possible.
Avoiding dental treatment will just lead to bigger dental problems that require more complicated procedures later on, such as root canals or extractions. If you have a cavity or if your cavity is causing your tooth to ache, it is time to see a dentist. The earlier you see a dentist, the earlier you can get your dental health back. Remember, you do not always have to have your tooth extracted. Save your tooth and save yourself from the agony that tooth decay brings. Schedule a visit with our dentist today.