Cavities are a common dental concern that requires a dentist’s intervention. Fortunately, cavity fillings are generally quick and efficient, taking as little as 20 minutes. But there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer because the time it takes depends on several factors, such as the severity and location of the cavity.
One thing is certain, though. You shouldn’t wait to get a filling. Once a cavity reaches a certain point, it cannot be reversed and requires treatment to prevent more severe complications.
What Is a Cavity?
A cavity is a small hole in your tooth caused by tooth decay. It develops when acid-producing bacteria break down the enamel, the tooth’s hard outer layer. This breakdown often happens due to poor oral hygiene, frequent sugar consumption, or skipping regular dental cleanings.
Cavities typically start as small, unnoticeable damage to your enamel. Then, they can progress deeper into the dentin (the inner layer of the tooth) and, eventually, into the nerve and pulp chamber if untreated.
How Cavities Are Harmful
When cavities remain untreated, they can cause various oral health issues, including:
- Severe toothache: The decay can reach the tooth’s nerve, causing significant sensitivity and pain
- Tooth infection: Bacteria can infiltrate the tooth’s pulp, leading to abscess formation and potential tooth loss
- Damage to neighbouring teeth: Untreated decay can spread to adjacent teeth, compounding the problem
- Gum disease: When oral bacteria aren’t managed, they contribute to periodontal disease, which can result in gum irritation, bleeding, and even bone loss
Acting early can help prevent these issues, making regular dental visits essential for good oral health.
Signs You May Have a Cavity
Not all cavities cause symptoms, especially in their early stages. But here are some common signs you should watch for:
- Tooth sensitivity when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet items
- Pain in a specific tooth when chewing or biting down
- Visible holes or pits in your teeth
- Discoloration, such as white spots, brown spots, or blackened areas on the tooth surface
- Swelling or bleeding in the gums near the affected tooth
- A persistent bad taste in your mouth or frequent bad breath
If you notice these symptoms, contacting your dentist as soon as possible is critical to prevent the decay from worsening.
Filling Is a Preferred Cavity Treatment
Dental fillings are among the most effective and widely used solutions for treating cavities. They restore the tooth’s integrity by “filling” the cavity with materials like composite resin, amalgam, gold, or porcelain. This prevents further decay and strengthens the tooth, making it functional and pain-free.
Fillings are often the go-to treatment because they’re minimally invasive, quick, and durable. Plus, if caught early enough, they address the problem without requiring more complex procedures, such as root canals or extractions.
What Can Affect the Cavity Fill Time?
The amount of time needed to fill a cavity depends on several factors, including:
- Cavity size and severity: Small cavities on the surface take less time to fill compared to larger cavities that penetrate deeper into the tooth.
- Filling material: Different types of filling materials (e.g., composite resin, amalgam, gold, or porcelain) require varied amounts of preparation and setting time
- Location of the cavity: Teeth at the front of your mouth are more accessible and may be quicker to treat, whereas molars may take longer because they’re harder to reach
- Number of cavities: If you have multiple cavities to fill in one visit, expect your appointment to take longer
- Complexity of the case: Teeth that require additional preparation or have structural issues might need more time to adequately clean, shape, and stabilize before filling
- Your comfort level: The dentist will typically prioritize your comfort, which could include additional time for numbing or sedation and breaks if you’re especially anxious or sensitive
Typical Filling Procedure
A typical cavity-filling process is straightforward, and most appointments take around 20 minutes to an hour for 1 tooth. But the appointment may take longer or require an additional visit for more complex cases, such as multiple fillings or larger cavities. Here’s what usually happens.
Numbing the Area
The dentist will often apply a numbing gel to your gums, followed by an injection of local anesthesia to ensure you don’t feel pain during the procedure. If you’re nervous, this part may include a brief chat to help you feel more comfortable.
Removing the Decay
The dentist can carefully remove the decayed portion of the tooth using a dental drill, laser, or air abrasion. The method used depends on the cavity size, type of decay, and the dentist’s preference.
Preparing the Cavity
Once the decay is removed, the dentist will shape the cavity area to ensure the filling material adheres properly. This might include cleaning the space and applying a bonding agent.
Placing the Filling
The chosen filling material is usually placed into the cavity in layers. If a composite resin is used, each layer is hardened with a special curing light before the next is applied.
Polishing & Finishing
After placing the filling, the dentist trims and polishes it to ensure the surface is smooth and comfortable for chewing. This helps to mimic your tooth’s natural shape.
Don’t Wait to Get a Filling
Cavity fillings are a relatively quick and painless solution to restore your tooth’s health and functionality. The longer you wait to address a cavity, the greater the potential for it to worsen, leading to more time, expense, and discomfort for treatment.
If you’re experiencing sensitivity or suspect you have a cavity, call our team at Hill Top Dental Centre or book an appointment online today. Early treatment can prevent further complications and ensure you maintain a confident, healthy smile.
