Do Fillings Hurt? What to Expect Before, During, and after the Procedure

For many patients, the question, "Do fillings hurt?" often leads to unnecessary worry or delayed treatment. At Cosmo Dental Centre, we aim to ensure patients understand what to expect during a dental filling so they can proceed with confidence in London, Ontario.

The dental filling procedure involves several steps, and understanding what happens before, during, and after can help manage discomfort and enhance your smile.

Before the Dental Filling Procedure

Your visit will begin with a comprehensive examination. If tooth decay or damage is detected, your dentist will recommend a filling.

Before the procedure starts:

●      You will receive a local anesthetic to numb the area surrounding the tooth.

●      Your dentist will confirm that the anesthetic has taken full effect before proceeding.

●      You will be able to communicate at any point if you feel discomfort.

At this stage, many patients notice that the dental filling procedure itself is painless due to the numbing effect.

During the Dental Filling Procedure

Here is what to expect during a dental filling:

●      The dentist will remove decayed or damaged portions of the tooth using specialized instruments.

●      The cleaned cavity is then prepared to receive the filling material.

●      The composite resin or another suitable material is placed in layers and hardened using a curing light.

●      The filling is shaped and polished to match your natural tooth.

Thanks to modern techniques, most patients experience only minor sensations such as light pressure or vibration, but not pain.

After the Dental Filling Procedure

Following the procedure:

●      The numbness will gradually wear off within a few hours.

●      It is advisable to wait until full sensation returns before eating to avoid accidental injury.

●      Minor sensitivity to temperature or pressure may occur for a few days but typically resolves on its own.

Our team endeavours to provide clear post-treatment instructions. Modern composite materials are commonly used for dental fillings. These materials provide both functional strength and aesthetic appearance, allowing the restoration to blend with the natural tooth surface.

Recovery Tips after a Dental Filling

After a filling:

●      Wait until numbness wears off before eating to avoid accidental biting of the cheek or tongue.

●      Begin with soft foods; avoid very hot, cold, hard, or sticky items.

●      Brush and floss gently to maintain oral hygiene.

●      Contact your dentist if discomfort persists or unusual changes occur.

When to Contact Your Dentist

Some sensitivity is normal after a filling. Contact your dentist if:

●      Discomfort lasts beyond one week

●      You feel a sharp pain when biting

●      You notice changes around the treated tooth

Prompt evaluation helps address any complications and supports the long-term success of the filling.

Moving Forward with Confidence about Dental Fillings

Cosmo Dental Centre strives to make dental care accessible and stress-free in London, Ontario. If you have delayed treatment out of concern about pain, rest assured that today’s techniques make dental fillings a quick and manageable experience.

We welcome new patients. Visit our new patient page to learn more about what to expect. If you are ready to schedule your appointment or have questions, please contact us.