Londoners looking to find out how long a dental filling takes are definitely not talking to their dentist in vain. It is a question that is frequently asked before dental visits and is mainly posed by those who are feeling anxious about the… or those who are short of time. What is there to worry about? The majority of cavity fillings are done fast and without any complications, and they usually do not exceed an hour of time.
What Affects the Time to Fill a Cavity?
The time duration for a dental cavity-filling varies due to the same number of reasons which are also:
– Size and Location of the Cavity: In general, surface-level cavities are the fastest to fix and can be done in 20-30 minutes. Deep and large cavities especially those located in between the teeth or on an area that is difficult to reach may take at least 45 minutes.
– Number of Cavities: One cavity can be done very quickly in comparison with a few. If you have two cavities then the time taken will be twice of what it usually is. In case there are three or more cavities, your dentist might suggest splitting the treatment into several visits.
– Filling Material: In London, Composite (tooth-colored) fillings are quite common. They need time to cure under a light hence they take a little longer. Amalgam (silver) fillings may be done quicker, however, they are not as popular because of aesthetic reasons.
– Complexity and Prep Work: To some extent, cavities may need additional cleaning or even reshaping of the tooth before the filling which can be done for a longer period of time.
Typical Time frames for Cavity Fillings in London
– Small (Simple) Filling: 20-30 minutes
– Medium Filling: 40-50 minutes
– Large or Complex Filling: 50-70 minutes
At many London dental clinics, if you need multiple fillings, dentists often combine treatments in one visit to minimize the number of appointments.
Step by Step: What Happens During a Cavity Filling?
1. Initial Exam & X-rays: The assessment can be done by the dentist through an examination of your tooth and seeing the X-rays.
2. Local Anesthesia: To a large extent, a speedy injection helps to numb the area and hence the patient stays comfortable.
3. Decay Removal: The dentist removes all decayed parts from the cavity.
4. Filling Placement: The selected filling material is used for the application. When done with composites, different layers are fastened under a light.
5. Shaping & Polishing: The contour of the filled tooth is made just like the rest and a smooth finish is achieved by polishing it.
6. Final Check: Your dentist makes sure everything is ok, adjusts if needed and then completes the work.
After Your Cavity Filling
Once the dental operation is done, a little sensitivity to hot and cold food or drinks for several days should be expected. It is advisable not to eat very hard or sticky foods at the beginning. In case you feel pain that is continuous or that is sharp, then you should contact the dentist immediately.
Final Takeaway
Locally, a cavity filling in London takes from 20 minutes up to 1-hour and depends primarily on the individual case. What is needed to be done in small cavities will be over quickly, on the other hand, large, and multiple ones.
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