Are Fillings Painful?

Are Fillings Painful?

A dental filling is a restorative procedure used to repair minor to moderate tooth decay or damage. Fillings restore the tooth’s function and prevent further deterioration. There are different types of fillings, including composite resin, amalgam, ceramic, and gold, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

Do Fillings Hurt? What to Expect During the Procedure

The good news is that modern dentistry has made getting a filling a relatively painless experience. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Local Anaesthesia for Pain Management

Before the procedure begins, your dentist will apply a local anaesthetic to numb the affected area. This ensures that you won’t feel pain during the filling process. You might feel a slight pinch when the anaesthetic is administered, but this discomfort is minimal and short-lived.

2. Tooth Preparation and Decay Removal

Once the area is numb, the dentist will use special tools to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. While the sounds of the drill might be unsettling you can ask for noise cancelling headphones, you should not experience pain. Some people feel slight pressure or vibrations, but these sensations are completely normal.

3. Placing the Filling

After the decay is removed, the dentist will clean the cavity and place the chosen filling material. For composite resin fillings, the material is applied in layers and hardened using a curing light. Again, this process is painless and you can pass the time by watching Netflix on the ceiling tvs.

4. Shaping and Polishing

The dentist will shape and polish the filling to ensure a comfortable bite. You might be asked to bite down to check alignment, but any necessary adjustments will be made immediately.

Post-Filling Sensitivity: What’s Normal?

While the procedure itself is pain-free, it’s common to experience mild sensitivity afterward. This usually subsides within a few days to a week. Common sensations include:

• Mild sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
• Mild soreness or discomfort when chewing
• A slight feeling of numbness for a few hours after the procedure due to the anaesthetic which will wear off and feeling will return.

If sensitivity persists beyond two weeks or worsens over time, it’s advisable to consult your dentist.

Managing Discomfort After a Filling

Most post-filling discomfort is temporary and manageable with simple care techniques:

• Use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth to ease sensitivity.
• Avoid extremely hot or cold foods in the first few days.
• Chew on the opposite side of your mouth to minimise discomfort.
• Take over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen or paracetamol if needed.
• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent further decay and keep your fillings in top shape.

Are Some Fillings More Painful Than Others?

The level of discomfort can depend on factors such as the size and location of the cavity and the type of filling used. For example:

• Deeper cavities that are closer to the tooth’s nerve may cause more post-procedure sensitivity.
• Composite resin fillings (tooth-coloured fillings) tend to be well-tolerated with minimal discomfort.

However, with proper dental care and professional expertise, any discomfort is typically short-lived and manageable.

Can You Avoid Painful Fillings?

While modern fillings are not painful, preventing cavities in the first place can help you avoid the need for them altogether. Maintain strong oral health by:

• Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing regularly
• Visiting your dentist for routine check-ups and cleans
• Reducing sugary and acidic food consumption

Are Fillings Painful for Children?

Many parents worry about their child’s experience with fillings. Fortunately, paediatric dentistry prioritises gentle care and uses child-friendly techniques to ensure a stress-free experience.

At Avenue Dental, Children’s Fillings are performed with great care to make young patients feel comfortable. Using the latest pain management methods and positive reinforcement, the procedure is tailored to minimise fear and discomfort.

BOOK A FREE SMILE CONSULTATION