Dental fillings work by physically filling in the cavity or damaged area of a tooth, restoring its normal function and structure. When a dentist identifies a cavity, the decayed portion of the tooth is carefully removed to prevent the decay from spreading deeper into the tooth or to adjacent teeth. Once the decay is removed, the cavity is cleaned to eliminate any remaining debris or bacteria. The dentist then fills the cavity with a suitable material, which hardens and bonds to the tooth, effectively sealing off the area from further damage.

The choice of filling material is critical for the effectiveness of the treatment. For example, composite fillings, made from a tooth-colored resin, bond directly to the tooth structure and are ideal for small to medium-sized fillings in visible areas of the mouth. Amalgam fillings, composed of a mixture of metals, are more durable and often used for molars where chewing forces are greater. Once the filling is placed, it restores the tooth's integrity, allowing it to function normally while preventing further decay or damage.

For most patients, Dental Cleaning is a relatively painless procedure, though some may experience mild discomfort, especially if they have not had a cleaning in a while or if they have sensitive teeth or gums. The discomfort is usually minimal and is due to the removal of plaque and tartar, particularly around the gumline. If tartar has built up over time, it can create some sensitivity when being scraped off, but this discomfort is typically brief. In some cases, patients with sensitive gums may feel tenderness or slight bleeding, especially if they have gingivitis or early gum disease. However, these side effects are temporary and should resolve soon after the cleaning.

For individuals with significant Dental anxiety or those who experience a lot of discomfort during cleanings, the dentist may suggest using numbing agents or a mild sedative to help make the process more comfortable. The use of modern dental tools, such as ultrasonic scalers, has also made cleanings quicker and more comfortable by reducing the amount of physical scraping needed. While dental cleaning is generally not painful, it is crucial for patients to communicate with their dental provider about any concerns they may have. This allows the dentist or hygienist to take steps to ensure that the procedure is as comfortable as possible, tailoring the experience to each patient's needs.