Do Fillings Hurt?

Dental filling itself is performed to stop cavities and eliminate the possibility of complications, such as an infection. The dentist will remove the existing decay and clear your tooth, restoring it back to its natural shape. The procedure aims to restore your teeth and make your mouth healthier and more comfortable.

If the cavity is deep, it is possible that there may be minimal discomfort. You can communicate with your dentist and inform them if you experience discomfort during the procedure at any point. Other than this, the location of the cavity also matters. If you have a small root cavity, it is simple to treat if the dentist spots it early on.

However, the root of the tooth has a substance called cementum, which is affected by decay more quickly.

If you have receding gums, exposed roots can also fall victim to decay because the roots are not as strong as dental enamel, so you might experience a little more discomfort during the procedure.

In addition, having more than one cavity is also a factor that can cause potential discomfort during the procedure. This is because you may have to hold your mouth open for a longer period, which can cause jaw pain after filling.

Knowing what to expect during your appointment can provide you with peace of mind. Make sure you ask your dentist what happens during the dental filling procedure to know if it hurts or not. Here is what they might tell you and what the process usually involves:

1. The dentist will dry the area with the affected tooth and administer a numbing gel.
2. After making sure your gum is numb, they will inject a local anesthetic. This part should not hurt apart from a slight pinch as the anesthetic begins numbing the tooth, gum, and jaw area.
3. The dentist will remove the decay using a drill. This part also does not hurt, but you might find it relaxing to listen to music, podcasts, or something else to reduce your stress. Discuss this with your dentist!
4. Once the dentist has cleared the decay, they will sterilize the hole and fill it with a suitable material. If it is a deep filling procedure, they might place a liner first to protect the nerve before filling.
5. After the filling is complete, the dentist will make sure your bite is even and check your bite in order to fix any issues. They will polish the tooth afterward!