Finding out you have a cavity can be scary if you aren’t sure how the repair works. The good news is that getting dental fillings in Ottawa is a very common and easy process.
A filling is a way to repair a tooth with a small hole caused by decay. Fixing it early stops the problem from turning into a painful infection or a lost tooth. Knowing what happens during your visit can help you feel much more relaxed.
This guide will show you everything that happens, from numbing the tooth to the final polish of your new smile.
Will the Procedure Be Painful?
The biggest question most people have is: does getting a dental filling hurt? The truth is, the process itself should not hurt at all. Before the dentist starts, they use a special medicine to numb the area around your tooth. This medicine stops the nerves from feeling anything.
You might feel a little bit of pressure or a tugging sensation while the dentist works, but you shouldn’t feel any pain. If you ever feel uncomfortable, you can raise your hand, and the team will stop to help you.
How Long Will the Appointment Take?
If you have a busy day, how long does a dental filling take from start to finish? Most of the time, a single filling takes between 20 and 60 minutes. The time depends on where the cavity is and how big it has grown.
A tiny spot on a front tooth is very fast, while a larger hole on a back tooth might take a bit longer to shape perfectly. When you visit a dentist in Ottawa, they can usually tell you exactly how much time they need before they get started.
What Happens During the Filling?
Knowing the steps can help you feel less nervous. When you go to the dentist near you follows a simple plan to make your tooth healthy again:
- Numbing: First, they put a “sleepy jelly” on your gum, then use a tiny needle to numb the tooth completely.
- Cleaning: The dentist removes the soft, decayed part of the tooth to keep it clean.
- The Filling: They fill the clean space with a special material that looks like your real tooth.
- Hardening: They use a cool blue light to harden and strengthen the filling right away.
- Shaping: Finally, they smooth it down so it feels natural when you bite into it.
How Do You Feel After the Numbing Wears Off?
Once the numbing medicine wears off, your tooth might feel a little sensitive to cold drinks or when you chew. How long does filling pain last? Any minor soreness usually goes away within 1 or 2 days. It feels more like a dull ache than a sharp pain.
If the pain is severe or your tooth feels “too tall” when you bite down, call the office. Usually, the dentist needs to make a tiny adjustment to the shape.
Finding the Right Care for Your Smile
When you are looking for dental fillings, it’s important to find a team that is gentle and kind. Modern fillings are made to match the colour of your teeth, so no one will even know you had work done.
Fixing a small cavity now is much better than waiting until it hurts. Staying on top of these minor fixes keeps your real teeth strong and saves you money on bigger treatments later.
Common Filling Types
| Material | What it Looks Like | Where it’s Used |
| White Resin | Matches your tooth color. | Front teeth or small holes. |
| Silver Amalgam | Dark and very strong. | Large holes in back teeth. |
| Glass Material | Natural and releases fluoride. | For kids or near the gums. |
Keep Your Smile Healthy and Strong
Treating a cavity early is the best way to stay healthy and keep your smile looking great. Modern dental tools make the visit quick, gentle, and very effective. You don’t have to be nervous about getting the help you need.
At ASNAN Dental, we work hard to make sure you feel safe and comfortable during every visit. Our team uses the highest-quality materials to ensure your fillings look natural and last a long time. Give us a call today to book your checkup and keep your teeth in great shape.
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FAQs
1. Can I eat right after my filling?
Yes, but it is best to wait until the numbing wears off so you don’t accidentally bite your tongue or cheek.
2. Why is my tooth sensitive to cold?
The nerve inside the tooth is just a little “grumpy” from the work, but it will feel better in a day or two.
3. How long do fillings last?
Most tooth-colored fillings last about 7 to 10 years if you brush and floss regularly.
4. What happens if I wait to get a filling?
The hole will get bigger and deeper, which can lead to a very bad toothache or an infection.