<p>Much to my surprise today after my semi-annual teeth cleaning, the dentist said I have a cavity and that I need a filling. I can't remember the last time I had a cavity!</p>
<p>Is the process relatively painless? How long is the procedure?</p>
<p>That Google thing is helpful in the search for answers…</p>
<p>The Novocaine shot is just a pinch of pain. After that, it’s a breeze. Roughly 20 minutes for the actual procedure, I’d say.</p>
<p>Piece of cake! Dentist will numb you with a shot of novocaine near the tooth that needs to be filled. Once the area is numb, he’ll drill the tooth and remove the decayed area----you’ll rinse out your mouth and spit into the water spittoon (little sink). Then, he’ll fill the tooth and you’ll rinse and spit again. Then, you’re done.</p>
<p>A typical appointment for filling a cavity from start to finish is about 40 minutes (depending on the size of the cavity). It doesn’t hurt as long as you get a novocaine shot.</p>
<p>Once you’re numbed up, you’ll be fine. The shot hurts worse than the actual procedure. Just be sure not to chew on your cheek or tounge after because it’s numb (although I’ve never ACTUALLY met anyone who has done that).</p>
<p>A single tooth filling is cake. </p>
<p>My poor teeth are falling apart. I wish I’d never gotten braces…</p>