Are you getting ready for your first cavity filling? 

It’s completely normal to feel a little anxious and to find yourself wondering, “Do cavity fillings hurt?”

Many of our patients at Yonge & Seven Dental Care feel the same way.

However, getting a filling is the most effective way to address cavities and safeguard your tooth from further damage and infection. 

If you’re experiencing pain in your tooth and suspect a cavity, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible.

In the meantime, this article will provide you with essential information about cavity fillings and what you can expect from the treatment.

What is a Cavity?

A cavity is a portion of your tooth that has been damaged by bacteria penetrating the tough outer layer known as enamel. 

Cavities can develop if you neglect regular brushing and flossing or consume foods high in sugars or refined carbohydrates. 

As bacteria metabolize the sugars, they generate acid that undermines tooth enamel, causing the decay to advance further into the tooth. 

Eventually, this decay creates a hole in your tooth where extra food particles can become trapped, making it harder to clean effectively.

Why It's Important to Fill Cavities as Early as Possible

Addressing cavities promptly is crucial in order to prevent them from worsening over time.

Tooth decay is a bacterial infection that can spread if not dealt with soon.

Delaying treatment could result in losing a tooth, which would then require a dental implant and a crown to restore both the appearance and functionality of your smile.

What are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are used to fix teeth that have decay, cracks, or wear. When a dentist finds a cavity, they remove the decayed part and fill the empty space with a filling material.

Fillings help keep the tooth strong, healthy, and functional. They also stop bacteria from returning to the area. 

If left untreated, a cavity can reach the tooth's pulp, leading to severe pain and possibly requiring procedures like root canals or tooth extractions.

How Long Does a Filling Take?

Small fillings usually take about 20 to 30 minutes to complete, while deeper or multiple cavities take longer. 

The procedure is simple:

The dentist will dry the area and apply a numbing gel, followed by a local anesthetic injection. 

Next, the dentist will drill to remove the decay, which some find unsettling due to the sound.

Once the decay is removed, the area will be sterilized and filled. 

For deep cavities near the pulp, a protective liner may be applied first. 

Finally, the dentist will check your bite for evenness and polish the tooth.

Does it Hurt to Get a Cavity Filling?

Most fillings are painless due to the effective numbing agent used by your dentist. 

You may feel a brief sting from the local anesthetic as it blocks pain signals. 

The anesthetic is applied to the gums around the affected tooth and takes effect within minutes. 

A numbing gel may also be used to minimize discomfort during the injection. 

You will likely feel pressure but no pain, and if you do feel sensitivity, inform your dentist for additional anesthetic. 

The numbing effect typically lasts for several hours.

What determines how much a filling will hurt

What Types of Numbing Agents are Available?

Numbing agents are used to reduce or eliminate pain and discomfort.  

Here are some common numbing agents:  

• Lidocaine is one of the most popular numbing gels. It is also used as an injectable anesthetic.  

• Benzocaine is another numbing gel used for adults and children over the age of 2.  

• Epinephrine is found in some injections to improve how long the anesthetic works and how well it works.  

Make sure to tell your dentist if you have any allergies to these substances or other anesthetics.

Recovery Tips

After getting a regular filling, your recovery time is about two days. 

You might feel some mild pain, discomfort, or sensitivity as your nerve adjusts to the new filling. 

It's normal to have soreness in your gums and jaw, especially when you brush or floss. 

These effects are usually mild and shouldn't disrupt your daily activities.

However, you can:

• Avoid very hot and very cold foods and drinks.
• Eat a soft diet.
• Avoid aggressively licking the filling.

Conclusion

To avoid pain, take care of your oral hygiene. 

This means visiting our clinic for regular check-ups, flossing, brushing your teeth, and bringing your kids to the dentist when it's time. 

If you grind your teeth, use a mouth guard.

Do cavity fillings hurt? Usually, no.

With the latest treatments, you won’t feel discomfort during your visit because of numbing agents. 

However, always take care of your smile to prevent serious treatments, like dental implants, in the future.