You’ve just finished your routine dental cleaning when your dentist delivers news you didn’t expect: “You have a cavity.” For many patients, the idea of needing additional treatment can be stressful—especially if dental visits already make you nervous. But at Bassett Creek Dental in Golden Valley, we go out of our way to ensure your visit is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Let’s walk through what you can expect when getting a dental filling, so there are no surprises—just healthy, restored teeth.

Why You Might Need a Dental Filling

Cavities are one of the most common dental issues for both kids and adults. They form when plaque and bacteria build up on the teeth and begin to eat away at the enamel. Once decay causes a small hole in your tooth (called a dental caries), it won’t heal on its own. A dental filling is the most common and effective treatment to stop the decay and restore your tooth’s structure.

Fillings also help:

• Prevent further decay

• Strengthen weakened teeth

• Reduce sensitivity or pain

• Preserve your natural smile

Diagnosing a Cavity at Bassett Creek Dental

Most cavities are diagnosed during your routine dental exam or professional teeth cleaning. Using digital x-rays and a careful visual exam, our dentists check for early signs of decay. If we spot a cavity, we’ll explain what’s going on and schedule a dental filling appointment at a time that works for you.

What Happens During a Dental Filling?

Every patient is different, but here’s a general idea of what to expect during your appointment:

1. Numbing the Area
   We’ll start by applying a local anesthetic to the area around your tooth, so you stay comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.

2. Removing the Decay
   Using specialized tools, your dentist will carefully remove the decayed portion of the tooth.

3. Placing the Filling
   The cleaned-out cavity is filled with a tooth-colored composite resin that blends naturally with your smile. This material is strong, durable, and mercury-free.

4. Shaping and Adjusting
   Once the filling is placed, we’ll shape and polish it to ensure a proper fit and natural feel. We’ll also check your bite and make adjustments if needed.

5. Aftercare Instructions
   Your dentist will provide tips for caring for your filling, including foods to avoid and how to manage any short-term sensitivity.

Have dental anxiety? Just let us know in advance. We offer additional comfort options and can make accommodations to ensure your visit is as calm and relaxing as possible.

After Your Filling

Some patients experience mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure after the procedure, but this usually fades within a few days. Most tooth-colored fillings last for many years with good brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.

If you notice discomfort or the filling feels uneven after a few days, don’t hesitate to call us for a quick adjustment.

Schedule Your Dental Filling in Golden Valley, MN

If you’ve been putting off your dental care, now’s the perfect time to take action. Whether it’s your first cavity or your fifth, Bassett Creek Dental is here to make the process simple, effective, and as comfortable as possible.

We proudly serve families in Golden Valley, Plymouth, St. Louis Park, and surrounding areas.

Call today to schedule your visit: 763.546.1301 or book online anytime.