What is The Process for Doing a Filling? Will It Hurt?

Here at Willow Glen Dental Center, we strive to ensure that our patients are well-informed about their treatment. Continue reading for more information about the process of placing a filling in the tooth and what you can personally expect during your treatment.

Why is a Filling Needed?

When a dentist recommends a tooth to have a filling placed, it could mean decay, fracture, or chipping of a tooth or previous filling. When allowed to progress, it eats away at the tooth. The larger the decay, the more work the tooth may need in order to rebuild and strengthen the tooth.

The decay is removed from the tooth, which is then filled back up with a synthetic material to ensure that no further decay or damage occurs.

About the Process

To begin the procedure, your dentist will ensure that the area is numb using local anesthesia in order to ensure your comfort.

He or she will then use a dental handpiece, or dental drill, to remove all signs of decay in the tooth. Once the tooth has been cleared of all decay, they will then move forward with filling the tooth with one of two substances:

• Amalgam: Commonly known as “silver” fillings. To place an amalgam filling, the dentist will mix a powdered allow with liquid mercury to form the amalgam putty, which is then packed into the tooth. The putty quickly hardens after it is placed and the dentist will then shave down any irregularities or high points in the bite.

• Composite: Commonly known as “white” fillings. The dentist will first ensure that the tooth is completely dry. An adhesive bonding solution will then be applied to the tooth and light cured. The dentist will then insert the composite into the tooth, either in liquid or putty form dependending on the doctor’s preference, size of cavity, and location in the mouth. The material will be packed into the tooth and light cured to ensure that it completely solidifies. The dentist will then take adjust and smooth the filling.

Will It Hurt?

In most cases, the only pain that the patient will experience is the slight discomfort that is experienced while the dentist administers the anesthesia. Once the area has become numb, the entirety of the procedure should be entirely painless. At some points, the patient may feel some slight pressure, but that is the extent of any discomfort they will feel. Modern dentistry has truly evolved, placing the patient’s comfort at the very forefront of the practice.

For more information about fillings or to get scheduled for a filling at Willow Glen Dental Center, give us a call anytime at (408) 266-6144.