Calgary Dental Filling: What to Expect During Your Dental Filling Appointment

At Dr. Korol Dental, we understand that dental procedures can sometimes be daunting, especially if you’re unsure of what to expect. Our goal is to make your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the dental filling process, from start to finish, so you can feel prepared and confident for your appointment.

Introduction to Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are one of the most common restorative procedures in dentistry. They are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, fractures, or wear. Fillings restore the tooth’s structure, function, and aesthetics, helping you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. Here’s what you can expect during your dental filling appointment at Dr. Korol Dental.

The Initial Examination

Your dental filling appointment will begin with a thorough examination by Dr. Korol. This step is crucial for diagnosing the extent of the decay or damage and determining the best course of action. During this examination, Dr. Korol will:

1. Review Your Dental History: Understanding your dental history helps us tailor the treatment to your specific needs.
2. Conduct a Visual Inspection: Using dental instruments, Dr. Korol will inspect the affected tooth or teeth.
3. Take X-rays: If necessary, X-rays will be taken to get a detailed view of the tooth’s internal structure and the extent of the decay.

This comprehensive assessment ensures that we have all the information needed to provide the most effective treatment.

Numbing the Area

Once the examination is complete and the treatment plan is confirmed, the next step is numbing the area around the affected tooth. This is done to ensure that you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. Here’s how it works:

1. Applying Topical Anesthetic: A topical anesthetic gel is first applied to the gums to numb the surface area.
2. Injecting Local Anesthetic: After the topical anesthetic takes effect, a local anesthetic is injected to numb the deeper tissues and the tooth itself.

You might feel a slight pinch during the injection, but the discomfort is minimal and temporary.

Removing the Decay

With the area numb, Dr. Korol will begin the process of removing the decayed or damaged portions of the tooth. This step involves:

1. Using a Dental Drill: A dental drill or laser is used to carefully remove the decayed material.
2. Cleaning the Cavity: Once the decay is removed, the cavity is thoroughly cleaned to ensure there are no remaining bacteria or debris.

This step is crucial for preventing further decay and ensuring a solid foundation for the filling.

Placing the Filling

After the cavity is prepared, it’s time to place the filling. Depending on the type of filling material chosen (composite resin, amalgam, gold, or porcelain), the process may vary slightly. Here’s a general overview:

1. Composite Resin Fillings:
   • Layering the Material: The composite resin is applied in layers, with each layer being cured (hardened) using a special light.
   • Shaping and Polishing: Once the filling is in place, it is shaped to match the natural contours of your tooth and polished for a smooth finish.
2. Amalgam Fillings:
   • Filling the Cavity: The amalgam material is packed into the cavity and shaped to fit the tooth.
   • Setting: Amalgam fillings take a few hours to fully harden, but you can use the tooth normally soon after the procedure.
3. Other Materials: For gold or porcelain fillings, the process may involve additional steps, such as taking impressions and fitting a temporary filling while the permanent one is being made.

Final Adjustments

After the filling is placed, Dr. Korol will make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite is comfortable and the filling feels natural. This involves:

1. Checking the Bite: You will be asked to bite down on carbon paper to check the alignment.
2. Smoothing Rough Edges: Any rough or high spots will be smoothed out to ensure a comfortable fit.

These final touches are essential for ensuring that the filling integrates seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Aftercare and Recovery

Once your dental filling is complete, it’s important to follow proper aftercare to ensure the longevity of the filling and the health of your tooth. Dr. Korol will provide you with specific aftercare instructions, which may include:

1. Avoiding Hard Foods: For the first 24 hours, avoid chewing on hard foods that could damage the new filling.
2. Maintaining Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss regularly to keep the filled tooth and surrounding areas clean.
3. Monitoring for Sensitivity: It’s normal to experience some sensitivity after the procedure, but if it persists or worsens, contact our office.

At Dr. Korol Dental, we are committed to providing you with the highest quality dental care in a comfortable and supportive environment. Understanding what to expect during your dental filling appointment can help alleviate any anxiety and ensure a smooth and positive experience. If you have any questions or concerns about dental fillings or any other dental procedures, please call us! We’re here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Request your appointment today and take the first step towards better dental health with Dr. Korol