Do Fillings Hurt? What to Expect During and After the Procedure

Hearing that you need a dental filling can feel a little intimidating, especially if you’re worried about pain. At Edmonton Smiles, one of the most common questions we hear from patients is, “Do fillings hurt?”
The good news is — thanks to modern dental techniques, getting a filling is typically quick, comfortable, and virtually pain-free.

In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect during and after a dental filling, and how we make the experience as stress-free as possible for our patients.

Why Are Dental Fillings Needed?

Dental fillings are used to restore teeth damaged by decay (cavities) or minor fractures. When left untreated, cavities can worsen over time, causing more pain, infection, and even tooth loss. Fillings stop the progression of decay and restore the tooth’s function and structure.

Common reasons for needing a filling include:

• Tooth decay (cavities)

• Chipped or cracked teeth

• Worn down teeth from grinding (bruxism)

At Edmonton Smiles, we offer tooth-colored fillings (composite resin) that blend naturally with your smile.

Do Fillings Hurt During the Procedure?

It’s completely normal to feel nervous before a dental procedure — especially if it’s your first filling. Many patients associate dental work with discomfort, but the reality is far more reassuring. At Edmonton Smiles, we prioritize your comfort from the moment you sit in the chair.

Thanks to today’s advancements in dentistry, getting a filling is a straightforward, low-stress experience. Most patients are surprised by how easy and painless the process is.

In most cases, no — fillings do not hurt during the procedure.
Here’s why:

• Local Anesthetic: Before starting, we numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. You’ll feel pressure and movement but no pain during the procedure.

• Gentle Technique: Our dentists at Edmonton Smiles are highly trained in using gentle, minimally invasive techniques to make the experience as comfortable as possible.

• Advanced Technology: Modern tools help us remove decay efficiently and precisely, reducing the time you spend in the chair.

What You Might Feel:

Even with effective numbing and gentle techniques, it’s helpful to know what sensations are considered normal during a filling. While you shouldn’t feel any pain, you may notice a few common physical sensations as the dentist works on your tooth:

• A brief pinch when the anesthetic is administered.

• Some pressure or vibrations while the decay is being removed.

• No sharp pain — if you ever feel anything uncomfortable, your dentist can adjust immediately.

What Happens During a Filling Appointment?

Knowing what to expect during your dental filling appointment can ease anxiety and help you feel more in control. At Edmonton Smiles, we believe in keeping our patients informed every step of the way. Whether it’s your first filling or one of many, our goal is to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

The dental filling process typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and location of the cavity. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Numbing the Area: Local anesthesia is administered.

2. Decay Removal: The dentist carefully removes the decayed or damaged part of the tooth.

3. Cleaning the Tooth: The area is cleaned to remove bacteria and debris.

4. Filling Placement: The filling material (usually a tooth-colored composite) is placed in layers and hardened with a special light.

5. Shaping and Polishing: The dentist shapes the filling to match your natural bite and polishes it for a smooth finish.

By the end of your appointment, your tooth will be protected, functional, and look completely natural.

What to Expect After a Filling

After your filling is complete and the anesthetic begins to wear off, it’s normal to experience a few mild side effects as your mouth adjusts. These sensations are temporary and usually nothing to worry about. Knowing what’s typical can help you feel more confident about your recovery and avoid unnecessary concern.

Once the anesthesia wears off a few hours after your procedure, you might experience:

1. Mild Sensitivity
   It’s common to feel temporary sensitivity to:

• Hot or cold foods

• Air

• Pressure when biting

This sensitivity usually resolves within a few days to a week as your tooth adjusts to the new filling.

2. Numbness
   Your lips, tongue, and cheek may stay numb for a few hours. Be careful eating or drinking until the numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue accidentally.
3. Minor Discomfort
   Some patients report mild soreness around the injection site or jaw from keeping their mouth open. This typically fades within 24–48 hours.

How to Manage Post-Filling Sensitivity

Some sensitivity after a filling is completely normal, especially when eating or drinking hot or cold foods. Your tooth may need a little time to settle after the procedure. This sensitivity is typically mild and short-lived, but how you care for your mouth in the first few days can make a big difference. The good news is, there are simple steps you can take at home to ease any discomfort and help your tooth adjust more quickly.

• Avoid very hot, cold, or sticky foods for the first day. These can trigger discomfort or disturb the new filling before it fully sets.

• Use a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water when brushing. Being gentle with your brushing routine helps avoid irritating the treated area.

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed (always follow package directions). Medications like ibuprofen can reduce any mild soreness or inflammation.

• Give it time — mild sensitivity is normal and should improve within a week. Everyone heals at their own pace, but most patients feel back to normal quickly.

• If sensitivity persists longer than two weeks, or if you experience sharp pain when biting, contact Edmonton Smiles. An adjustment to the filling might be needed to fix your bite or relieve pressure.

If sensitivity persists longer than two weeks, or if you experience sharp pain when biting, contact Edmonton Smiles. An adjustment to the filling might be needed.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery After a Filling

Most patients feel back to normal within a day or two after getting a dental filling. But how you care for your teeth right after the procedure can make a big difference in your comfort and how long the filling lasts. Following a few simple tips can help you avoid unnecessary sensitivity, prevent future issues, and keep your smile in great shape.

• Follow all post-care instructions from your dentist. These are tailored to your specific treatment and ensure proper healing.

• Chew on the opposite side of your mouth for the first few meals. This protects the new filling from pressure while it settles.

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent future decay. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and use fluoride toothpaste.

• Schedule regular dental checkups to catch any issues early. Routine visits help your dentist monitor the filling and overall tooth health.

Taking good care of your filling helps it last for years — and protects the health of the surrounding tooth.

When to Call Your Dentist

Some minor sensitivity or discomfort after a filling is to be expected — especially in the first few days. But if anything feels off or doesn’t improve with time, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your comfort and oral health are important, and a quick visit can make all the difference.

You should contact Edmonton Smiles if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening pain that doesn’t improve after a few days

• Difficulty biting down or chewing on the filled tooth

• A filling that feels too high or uneven, affecting your bite

• Swelling, redness, or signs of infection around the tooth or gums

Early attention can prevent bigger issues and ensure your filling is functioning perfectly. It’s always better to check than to wait.

Final Thoughts: Fillings Are Quick, Comfortable, and Important

Getting a dental filling shouldn’t be a stressful experience. With modern anesthetics, skilled techniques, and compassionate care from the team at Edmonton Smiles, the process is virtually painless and extremely effective at protecting your teeth.

If you suspect you have a cavity or need a filling, don’t wait — early treatment saves your tooth and prevents more invasive procedures down the road.

Book your appointment today with the caring dental team at Edmonton Smiles and restore your healthy, confident smile.