Preparation and Anesthesia: The dentist begins by examining the tooth using instruments and X-rays to assess the extent of damage. Before the procedure starts, the tooth is numbed with anesthesia to ensure the patient doesn't feel any pain.
Removal of Decay: The dentist removes the decayed tissue from the tooth using specialized tools such as a dental drill. This process allows for the elimination of all infected areas and prepares the tooth for filling.
Cavity Preparation: After removing the decayed tissue, a clean and prepared cavity is created, ready to be filled with the filling material.
Filling: The dentist fills the prepared cavity with filling material. Composite resin is commonly used for this purpose, matching the tooth's color and bonding securely with its structure. The dentist shapes the filling smoothly to match the tooth's form and surroundings.
Polishing: After filling, the tooth undergoes polishing to give the filling a smooth and natural surface.
Evaluation of Final Result: The dentist assesses the results of the filling, ensuring that the tooth is properly restored with no irregularities or defects.
Procedure Completion: After completing the filling procedure, the effects of anesthesia begin to wear off, and the patient may start feeling the return of sensitivity in the tooth.
In most cases, direct filling can be done in a single dental clinic visit. However, in more complex cases or when the creation of a custom inlay or crown is necessary, additional time and multiple visits may be required.