If you’ve ever had a toothache or noticed sensitivity when eating sweets, your dentist might have told you that you have a cavity. A dental filling is one of the most common and effective ways to treat cavities. But if it’s your first time or you’re planning your day around your appointment, you might wonder: how long do fillings take for tooth cavities? This guide will break down the time required, the process involved, and what to expect before and after your visit to the skilled dentist.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings in King of Prussia are designed to restore the function, integrity, and shape of a tooth damaged by decay. The procedure involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling the space with a material such as composite resin, amalgam, gold, or porcelain.
Fillings prevent further decay and help maintain the structure of your tooth, ensuring you can chew and bite without discomfort. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and highly effective, which is why it’s one of the most frequently performed treatments in dental offices worldwide.
Average Time Required for a Filling
Most fillings take about 20 minutes to an hour to complete. However, several factors can influence the exact time required:
Number of Cavities: If you have more than one cavity, your dentist may address them in a single appointment, naturally extending the time.
Size and Location of the Cavity: Smaller, shallow cavities take less time to fill than deeper ones. Molars and teeth with hard-to-reach surfaces may also take longer to treat.
Type of Filling Material: Composite fillings, which are tooth-colored and aesthetically pleasing, often take longer to place than amalgam fillings because they require the tooth to stay completely dry during the process.
Need for Anesthesia: Administering local anesthesia and waiting for it to take effect can add 10–15 minutes to the appointment time.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Filling Process
Numbing the Area: First, the dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth to ensure you don’t feel any pain. This step typically takes around 10–15 minutes to fully kick in.
Removing the Decay: The dentist then uses a drill or laser to remove the decayed part of the tooth. This process is quick and usually takes 5–10 minutes, depending on the extent of decay.
Cleaning the Cavity: Once the decay is removed, the cavity is cleaned to remove bacteria and debris. This step ensures that the filling adheres properly and prevents future decay.
Placing the Filling: The chosen filling material is applied in layers. If it’s composite resin, each layer may be hardened using a special light. This layering process can take 10–20 minutes, depending on the cavity size.
Shaping and Polishing: After filling the cavity, the trusted dentist in King of Prussia shapes the material to fit your bite and then polishes it for a smooth finish. This final step usually takes 5–10 minutes.
What Happens After the Filling?
You may experience some mild numbness for a few hours after the appointment. Once the anesthesia wears off, your tooth might feel slightly sensitive to pressure, temperature, or sweet foods, but this usually subsides within a few days.
You can typically eat and drink shortly after the filling, especially if a composite material was used. However, if you received an amalgam filling, waiting at least 24 hours before chewing on that side is often recommended.
Conclusion
Getting a filling is a straightforward, fast, and painless procedure that usually fits comfortably within an hour. The exact time may vary depending on your situation, but rest assured, it’s a routine treatment that your dentist performs regularly. Taking care of cavities early not only saves you time in the chair but also prevents more serious dental problems down the line. If you suspect a cavity, don’t wait—schedule a visit and get the expert care you need.
