Nobody likes to keep their hands off the sweets and desserts. But what to do when you have cavities and holes in your teeth that trigger a sharp pain when you chew on sweets? Dentists offer a wide range of fillings to restore your teeth, whether it's a small or a big hole.
You must now be wondering if it’s a painful procedure or how long it takes to fill a cavity. A dental filling is a straightforward procedure and can be done in a single sitting. Here are some details on how long does it take to fill a cavity.
Dental Filling Procedure
Cavities might be annoying, but the good part is that they are relatively easier to treat. Before starting the procedure, the dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area then, with the help of a drill, they will drill out the decaying part. When the cleaning is done, the dentist will place the dental filling you both have agreed upon. Lastly, the dentist will harden the filling using a blue wavelength light as a final step.
How long does it take to fill in a cavity?
Generally, dental fillings do not take more than an hour to complete. Simpler ones take less than 20 minutes, while the bigger and more complicated ones can go over an hour. People who have multiple cavities may be recommended to split the procedure into multiple sessions. Also the material used in the filling also plays a significant role in the length of the procedure and the number of visits.
FAQs
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How long does it take to fill 1 cavity?
A filling takes an hour or less in general. However, the duration may exceed if you are getting an old filling replaced.
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How long does it take to fill 4 cavities?
A temporary filling will take ten minutes to an hour per tooth. If you have more than one cavity, your dentist will probably recommend you get it done in split sessions.
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How painful is getting a cavity filled?
A dental filling is one of those dental procedures that are least painful and heals faster. The dentist will administer a local anesthetic so you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.
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Is cavity filling permanent?
While some dental fillings are durable and strong, none of them are permanent. That means they do not last forever and wear off or chip over time.
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Do fillings hurt without anesthesia?
Without anesthesia, you may feel twinges of pain during the procedure. Therefore, getting a local anesthetic before the treatment is recommended to keep the procedure smooth.
Conclusion
Cavities are painful and can affect your energy and productivity in your day-to-day life. If you have a cavity, make sure to book an appointment with your dentist and get treatment suggestions for your next visit. The sooner it’s treated, the better it is.