Are Fillings Painful? An Idaho Falls Dentist Will Take the Discomfort Away

When discussing oral health, merely mentioning fillings may make some patients uneasy. Thankfully, getting fillings from an Idaho Falls dentist is straightforward, simple, and painless. Read on to learn more about dental fillings.

The Basics of Fillings

Dental fillings protect and restore decaying, damaged teeth to their normal shape and function. The process begins when an Idaho Falls dentist removes decaying organic matter, cleans the area, and fills the cavity with special materials. With recent advances in equipment and anesthetics, fillings are painless and quick. Patients can learn more about the filling process by consulting a local dentist.

The Idea of Pain Makes Dental Patients Fearful

Dental fear and anxiety are often based on old information and anecdotes, but it doesn’t reflect reality. Discomfort during dental treatment is minimal, thanks to local anesthetics that numb affected areas. Most patients report only slight vibration and pressure during procedures, with little pain afterward. Learn more about fillings and other types of comfortable dental care by scheduling a consultation with a local dentist.

Sensitivity After Fillings

While fillings are mostly painless, some patients can experience slight discomfort or sensitivity after local anesthetics wear off. While it can be unnerving, it’s a normal part of healing.

Over-the-counter medications can help patients manage tooth sensitivity when taken proactively, keeping them comfortable as discomfort naturally subsides. If pain lasts more than a week, gets worse with time, or can’t be managed with non-prescription medications, reach out to a dentist for advice.

Catching Tooth Decay Early

Regular check-ups help dentists and patients catch decay early when it’s treatable. If left unchecked, tooth decay may get into internal structures, causing infections and necessitating complex treatments. Evaluations allow dentists to treat decay with less invasive and more comfortable options.

Dental Fillings are an Investment in Patients’ Oral Health

While there may be some short-term discomfort, patients should see dental fillings as an investment in their long-term well-being. When done properly and followed with at-home care, dental fillings can last for many years. With help from a dentist like Dr. Philip R. Harper, patients can get the care needed for lifelong oral health.

Schedule a Visit

Patients should not let old fears keep them from getting necessary care. Dr. Harper and his team use the most advanced techniques and tools to ensure painless, long-lasting dental fillings, making patients’ comfort a priority. Patients can call or click to schedule an appointment today.