How Long Does a Filling Take?

Getting a filling can be a nerve-wracking experience for many people. After all, it’s a dental procedure that requires a professional to drill into your tooth and fill the cavity with a material to help restore your smile. But how long does a filling take?

This article aims to answer this question and provide a comprehensive guide to the process of getting a filling. We’ll discuss the types of fillings available, the time it takes to get a filling, and the aftercare involved. We’ll also look at the potential risks associated with getting a filling, and provide some tips for getting the best results.

Table of Contents

What is a Filling?

A filling is a dental procedure used to repair a decayed or damaged tooth. During the procedure, a dentist or dental hygienist will remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and then fill the area with a material such as amalgam, composite resin, or porcelain. The filling helps to restore the tooth’s normal shape and function, and protect it from further damage.

how long does a filling take — How Long Does a Filling Take

Types of Fillings

There are several different types of fillings available to restore a damaged tooth. The most common types of fillings are amalgam, composite resin, and porcelain.

Amalgam fillings are made from a combination of metals, including silver, tin, and copper. They are strong and durable, and can last up to 15 years. However, they are also noticeable and can cause discoloration of the tooth.

Composite resin fillings are made from a mixture of plastic and glass particles. They are more aesthetically pleasing than amalgam fillings and can be matched to the color of the tooth. Composite resin fillings are also less invasive and can be used to repair smaller cavities.

Porcelain fillings are made from a ceramic material and are matched to the color of the tooth. They are strong and durable, and can last up to 20 years. However, they are also more expensive than other types of fillings.

How Long Does a Filling Take?

The amount of time it takes to get a filling depends on the type of filling and the size of the cavity. Generally, a filling can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

For amalgam fillings, the procedure typically takes about 30 minutes. The dentist will first remove any decay from the tooth, then fill the cavity with the amalgam material. The filling is then shaped and polished to match the contour of the tooth.

Composite resin fillings take a bit longer, typically 45 minutes to an hour. The dentist will first remove any decay from the tooth, then fill the cavity with the composite resin material. The filling is then shaped and polished to match the contour of the tooth.

Porcelain fillings take the longest, usually an hour or more. The dentist will first remove any decay from the tooth, then fill the cavity with the porcelain material. The filling is then shaped and polished to match the contour of the tooth.

Aftercare

After getting a filling, it’s important to take good care of your teeth and gums to ensure the best results. Here are some tips for aftercare:

Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Floss your teeth at least once a day.
Avoid eating hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours.
Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the filling for the first 24 hours.
Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.

Potential Risks

Getting a filling is generally a safe procedure, but there are some potential risks involved. These include:

Tooth sensitivity. This is usually temporary and should improve after a few days.
Pain or discomfort. This is usually temporary and should improve after a few days.
Allergic reaction. Some people may be allergic to certain materials used in fillings, such as amalgam or composite resin.
Infection. This is rare, but can occur if bacteria enter the tooth during the procedure.

Tips for Getting the Best Results

To get the best results from your filling, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for aftercare. Here are some additional tips for getting the best results:

Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Floss your teeth at least once a day.
Avoid eating hard or sticky foods.
Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.
Use a fluoride mouthwash to help protect the filling.
Wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports.

Conclusion

Getting a filling can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it’s important to remember that it’s a safe and effective way to restore a damaged tooth. With the right care and maintenance, fillings can last for many years. The amount of time it takes to get a filling depends on the type of filling and the size of the cavity, but generally it takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Aftercare is also important to ensure the best results. Following these tips can help you get the most out of your filling.

If you have any questions about getting a filling, or if you’d like to schedule an appointment, please contact your dentist.