Question from our Readers: Multiple Fillings in One Day

Readers Question: If I need multiple fillings, can I get them all done in one day?

I can imagine how overwhelming managing your family's needs must feel. You have a busy teaching schedule, and on top of that, you discover that you need multiple fillings!  This is a lot to handle, but it's admirable that you're prioritizing your health.

It's also great you're seeking information before your appointment. I'd like to answer your question, relieve your worries, and share tips to streamline this process.

Yes, It's Possible to Get Multiple Fillings in One Day

Dentists can often perform multiple fillings in a single appointment. However, several factors need to be considered when making this decision:

Number of Fillings

Although there is technically no limit, dentists don't usually recommend doing more than three fillings simultaneously. This helps ensure your comfort, minimizes how long your mouth is open, and allows adequate time for healing between fillings.

Location of Cavities

The specific teeth requiring fillings and their placement within the mouth matter. If the cavities are in the same general area on one side, a dentist can comfortably do more fillings at once.

If you need fillings in several different areas of your mouth, your dentist may recommend multiple appointments to minimize the amount of local anesthesia used. Otherwise, you may be numb in your whole mouth for several hours afterward, making it difficult to eat and speak.

Your Comfort and Tolerance

Some people struggle to keep their mouths open for an extended period. Others may feel overwhelmed with long appointments. Your comfort level is very important when it comes to deciding whether you should get multiple fillings in one day.

Dentist's Assessment 

Your dentist is the best judge of an appropriate number of fillings in one visit. They'll consider your individual needs, comfort, and overall oral health.

Multiple Fillings in One Appointment Will Be Different

Getting multiple fillings in one appointment will differ from getting fillings in separate appointments. When you get multiple fillings in one appointment, expect the following:

• Longer appointment ⁠— A multiple-filling session will naturally be longer than a standard single-filling appointment. Your dentist will give you an estimated time frame.
• Increased amount of local anesthesia ⁠— You'll likely receive more numbing medication to make sure all the areas needing work are comfortable.
• Increased preparation ⁠— Your dentist might use different equipment to keep your mouth dry and the working areas clean while they switch between teeth.
• Longer recovery ⁠— You might experience temporary soreness and sensitivity for a few days after having multiple fillings, regardless of whether they're done at once or over multiple appointments.

Should You Do One Appointment or Spread It Out?

The choice of fitting all your dental work into one appointment or spreading it over several visits is completely up to you. However, I advise discussing this openly with your dentist.

They'll provide expert advice considering your situation and any anxieties you might feel. Let them know you're juggling a busy schedule and would like the most efficient solution for your dental work.

Remember that delaying dental treatment can lead to more extensive (and costly) procedures in the future. When choosing, consider your comfort level and potential need for time off work. 

Practical Tips for Multiple Fillings in a Day

Should you go through with having multiple fillings in a day, these are some things you can do to make things easier after your appointment:

• Seek support ⁠— Ask your partner or parent if they could take on some of the childcare duties on the day of your dental appointment (and perhaps the day after, in case you're feeling a little tender).
• Plan for your comfort ⁠— When you get multiple fillings at once, choose loose, comfortable clothing. Consider bringing headphones to listen to music or a podcast during the appointment if that helps you relax.
• Post-appointment care ⁠— Ask your dentist for specific care instructions. Stock up on over-the-counter painkillers and soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes in advance.

Remember, you are not alone in this. Many people with busy lives have similar challenges regarding healthcare appointments.

Open communication with your dentist is key to finding the best plan for you. Let your dentist know about your responsibilities and your desire for efficient care.

I hope this helps you feel more prepared and confident about your appointment!