When a tooth develops a cavity, a tooth filling will be required to repair the tooth and restore its function and appearance. Since tooth pain is often the first sign of a cavity, it is normal for patients to be worried about what they will feel during the filling procedure. This article focuses on what to expect during the procedure, the acceptable level of discomfort, and when to contact the dentist.
Pain is a sign that something is wrong somewhere. A cavity can cause pain and discomfort, and it is usually the fear of heightened pain that makes patients postpone getting a tooth filling. The vital point to consider is that undergoing treatment for a cavity is the best choice. The aim is to repair the tooth and relieve the pain, which may be achieved with a tooth filling.
In some cases, the dentist will discover a cavity during a dental checkup. Still, it is usually symptoms like pain, sensitivity, and discomfort that force patients to visit the dental office for diagnosis and treatment. Sometimes, a severely damaged or infected tooth can be painful, and basic functions like biting and eating may become nearly impossible.
The dentist will administer an anesthetic before beginning the treatment process. A local anesthetic is administered with injection, and it usually only numbs the affected area. While patients might feel slight pressure or know when the dentist is working, they will experience little or no pain throughout the procedure. The dental professional will ensure the tooth is numb before the procedure begins.
There might be slight sensitivity after the anesthetic wears off. Any pain concerns can typically be addressed with over-the-counter medications to alleviate pain. However, most patients can usually manage the discomfort without taking anything. If the cavity was near the tooth root, the patient may experience mild irritation. Generally, any pain that may have occurred should improve, not worsen, after the filling, as the damaged part of the tooth will have been removed. If the pain worsens for any reason, then the patient should inform their dentist as soon as possible.
Sometimes, the placement of the tooth filling is high, changing the patient's typical biting pressure. It is sometimes hard to determine this before the anesthetic wears off, which means patients will only know if an adjustment is necessary after they get home that day.
Modern tooth fillings can last for several years, depending on the type of materials used. However, sometimes, the tooth filling can weaken and need to be replaced. The dentist will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of tooth filling materials during the first consultation.
Tooth fillings should not hurt. During the tooth filling process, the dentist will numb the treatment area, clean the cavity, and remove decayed or infected material causing the problem. Remember, the earlier a cavity is treated, the better. Call our office to learn more about the filling process.
Request an appointment here: https://www.myddsny.com or call Inna Goykman-Amir DDS at (718) 416-6364 for an appointment in our Brooklyn office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Tooth Fillings in Brooklyn, NY.
Dental fillings typically last between 10 and 12 years before they are more vulnerable to coming loose and requiring special dental care to be repaired. This review discusses how a dentist can treat a loose dental filling, along with insights into how long you can expect filings to last, the signs of a loose dental…
Learning about your options for tooth fillings is a great idea. No longer do you have to settle for the traditional metal fillings; instead, you now have the ability to choose the type of tooth filling you want for treating your tooth cavities. According to the American Dental Association, when it comes to having a…
Dental fillings are not enjoyable procedures, however, they are often necessary to restore teeth that are in bad shape. Thankfully, there are a few ways that patients can avoid having to get a dental filling altogether. Want to learn how to avoid getting a dental filling? This article outlines some important information that can be useful…
If you are debating whether to invest in a smile makeover — or if you have already made this decision — knowing whether a cosmetic dentist is the right professional to trust is your next step. Many people want to go to their regular dentist for cosmetic treatments, but there are advantages to finding a…
TMJ disorder occurs when the temporomandibular joint is injured or overworked. The joint is responsible for connecting the skull and the jawbone, and it plays an important role in the jaw movement. When TMJ disorder develops, symptoms develop and can worsen without appropriate treatment. There are many different symptoms of TMJ disorder, but some TMJ symptoms…
A porcelain crown is a versatile dental restoration that protects and preserves damaged, weakened, or decayed natural teeth. By encasing the visible portion of a tooth, a porcelain crown restores its function, strength, and appearance. This treatment effectively saves a natural tooth from further damage, ensuring long-term oral health and maintaining the aesthetics of your…