Why Haven't I Received Dental Fillings After Multiple Visits?

Despite multiple visits, the dental filling has not been done?

I recently had a toothache, so I went to see a dentist.
He told me I had multiple cavities, but after three visits, he still hasn't done any fillings, and the appointment times have been very short.
The first visit seemed to involve a cleaning and applying some medication, and he said to come back the next day (the toothache became slightly less painful).
The second visit involved applying more medication and a treatment that felt like he was extracting something from my tooth, and he said to return in two days (the pain reduced to just a little).
The third visit was this morning, where it seemed like he drilled my tooth and said to come back in a week (but in the evening, the tooth started to hurt severely).
Is this normal? I'm a bit worried about being deceived and delaying treatment.

Bingfeng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/01

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

To check for calculus between the teeth in addition to cavities, it is necessary to first perform a thorough dental cleaning.
After that, the decayed areas should be cleaned.
If the cavities are deep, it may be necessary to place medication for disinfection before a permanent filling can be done after some time.
It is advisable to consult with the treating dentist.
Dr.
Tseng Kuang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2022/10/01

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a frustrating situation with your dental care, and it's completely understandable to feel concerned about the delays in receiving fillings for your cavities. Let's break down the possible reasons for this approach and what you can do moving forward.

Firstly, dental treatment, especially when it comes to cavities, can sometimes require a step-by-step approach. This is particularly true if there are underlying issues that need to be addressed before a filling can be placed. For example, if you have significant decay, your dentist may want to ensure that the tooth is stable and that any infection is managed before proceeding with a filling. This could involve cleaning the area, applying medicated treatments, or even performing a root canal if the decay has reached the pulp of the tooth.

In your case, it seems that your dentist has been taking a conservative approach. The initial visits may have focused on alleviating pain and managing any infection or inflammation. This is a common practice, as placing a filling on a tooth that is still infected or inflamed can lead to further complications. The dentist might be trying to ensure that the tooth is in the best possible condition before sealing it with a filling.

However, the repeated visits without a definitive treatment plan can be concerning. If you are experiencing significant pain, especially after the last visit, it may indicate that the issue is more severe than initially thought. Pain can be a sign of infection or that the decay has progressed, which may require more than just a filling, such as a root canal treatment.

Here are some steps you can take:
1. Communicate Your Concerns: It's essential to express your concerns directly to your dentist. Let them know about the pain you're experiencing and your worries about the treatment plan. A good dentist will appreciate your honesty and will be willing to explain their reasoning and the next steps.

2. Request a Detailed Explanation: Ask your dentist to explain why they are taking this approach and what the long-term plan is for your dental health. Understanding the rationale behind their decisions can help alleviate your concerns.

3. Consider a Second Opinion: If you feel uncomfortable with the treatment plan or if the pain persists, it might be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another dentist. They can provide you with an alternative perspective on your dental health and treatment options.

4. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in pain levels, swelling, or sensitivity. This information can be valuable for your dentist or a second opinion provider.

5. Follow Up Promptly: If your pain worsens or if you experience new symptoms, don't hesitate to follow up with your dentist sooner than the scheduled appointment. Prompt attention to worsening symptoms is crucial in dental care.

In summary, while it is not uncommon for dental treatments to take multiple visits, especially for complex cases, your concerns are valid. Open communication with your dentist and being proactive about your dental health will help ensure that you receive the care you need. Remember, your comfort and health should always be a priority in any treatment plan.

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