As the most common dental procedure in the United States, fillings are quick repairs that can help fill a tooth cavity and prevent infection. While most adults and children get cavities, not many patients know the fillings procedure and what to expect. How long do dental fillings take?
What materials are used to fill cavities? What causes cavities? If you are looking to make an appointment or learn more about what our dentist in Glendora can do to treat cavities, keep reading.
How Long Do Fillings Take? About Fillings
Fillings are used to fill the cavity that has been made from an infected part of the tooth. Your dental professional will use tools to remove the infected part of the tooth and will use a material of your choice to cover that cavity.
Depending on the type of filling you are eligible for, your fillings procedure could take a varying amount of time to complete. At Glendora Family Dentistry, we will discuss the different materials available, which include:
Silver fillings
Metal amalgam material can be used to fill the cavities in your teeth. These fillings are affordable, but one drawback is that the silver color stands out among the whiteness of your teeth. These fillings may not be completed in a single visit.
Porcelain fillings
Porcelain is a popular material used in dental repair, especially when it comes to fillings. While less affordable than other options, they can often last longer. Porcelain fillings may or may not be completed in a single dental visit.
Composite fillings
The most popular option for cavity fillings, composite fillings are durable and can be made to match the exact same color as your tooth. This option is cheaper than porcelain and more expensive than silver. Composite fillings can be completed quickly in a single dental visit.
Over the last few decades, each of these fillings has been used with huge degrees of success, although composite fillings are easily becoming the most widely used fillings across the globe.
How Long Do Fillings Take?
When you visit your local dentist to get your cavities filled, it’s important to know what to expect. Most fillings are simple and can be done in less than 30 minutes. But some may deal with deeper cavities and may take longer to fill. Depending on the material used, your fillings may require multiple visits. In some cases, a dentist may need to make an impression of your tooth and send away for a special filling.
If you are like most adults and children in the United States, you have had at least one cavity in your life. In fact, 92% of American adults have had a cavity. The best way to stop the spread of infection in your tooth is to have your dentist remove the affected area and fill that cavity with a filling. Not only do fillings help prevent the spread of decay, but it can restore your tooth to its normal functionality.
How Long Fillings Take to Set
Once the procedure is complete, you should allow at least one to two hours for the filling to set. This is why your dentist will always tell you to avoid eating or drinking anything for at least one hour after the procedure. It takes up to 24 hours for the filling to be completely set and at its full strength.
Get Relief from Your Cavity Pain Today!
You shouldn’t have to suffer through another cavity or a spreading tooth infection. At our local dental office, you can learn about our dental fillings Glendora services by getting in touch with a friendly team member today. We would be happy to schedule you for an available appointment so you can prevent tooth decay and infection. Put your health first and give us a call today!
