Nov
If you’ve ever had a cavity, you’re probably familiar with that little moment of dread when your dentist says, “You have a cavity.” But the truth is, getting a tooth filled is one of the most straightforward and effective ways to protect your smile.
However, when we hear from patients who’ve visited our team at Rolling Oaks Dental in Garden Ridge, Texas, they often express surprise that their experience was much smoother than expected. Getting a tooth filling is nothing to be anxious about. Let’s walk through the process so you know exactly what to expect when restoring a tooth.
The initial step includes numbing the area around the affected tooth. Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to guarantee your comfort. If you’re apprehensive about needles, you’ll find the process surprisingly painless. In fact, the treatment will probably conclude quicker than you anticipate.
After we’ve numbed the area, your dentist will begin gently removing the bad part of your tooth. This part is vital if we want to prevent tooth decay from spreading and causing more damage. This step typically involves drilling, but again, you won’t feel any discomfort. It’s quick, precise, and over before you realize it.
After removing the decay, the tooth must be cleaned thoroughly to eliminate any remaining bacteria or debris that could lead to future issues. Our doctors are very thorough during this process to ensure that the area is well-prepared for the filling material.
Here’s where your tooth starts to feel whole again. Depending on your needs, we will use a composite resin material that is tooth-colored and blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. The resin is applied in layers, and each layer is hardened with a special light to ensure the filling is strong and durable. This is where the magic happens—patients often mention that their tooth looks as good as new after this step.
After placing the filling, we will shape and polish it until it looks and feels completely natural when you bite down. Once the process is finished, you won’t even be able to tell that you have a new filling. Even though the process is quick, usually taking under an hour, you won’t have to worry about feeling rushed.
After the filling, you will receive simple instructions on caring for your tooth. The numbness will subside after a few hours, and you can resume your normal routine. For the first few days, avoid hard, very hot, or cold foods. As your filling integrates, you can enjoy most of your favorite foods in comfort.
Plus, if you damage your filling, getting it repaired is quick and easy.
Need a tooth filling? Rolling Oaks Dental offers excellent options for those searching for a “tooth filling near me.” Call (210) 880-2229 today to schedule your appointment and get your smile back on track!