Managing Dental Issues: Should You Fill Multiple Cavities at Once?

Q: Managing Dental Issues: Should You Fill Multiple Cavities at Once?

Hello： Regarding the first question, if you continue to use silver amalgam for filling, it is not recommended to complete it all at once; it is better to do it in two sessions, one for the left side and one for the right side. <br>However, if you use composite resin for filling,

Teeth

Because I haven't seen a dentist in a long time (about 4-5 years), I went to the dentist last week, and the fillings for my cavities (silver amalgam) have turned black, and I have some new cavities.
The dentist suggested re-filling them, but I have about 12 cavities (three on each side, top and bottom).
Can I request the dentist to fill them all at once instead of doing two at a time? Additionally, the doctor suggested that I have my wisdom teeth extracted, but when I look in the mirror, I feel that my teeth are relatively intact, and there is no misalignment, plus I don't have any pain, so I'm not very keen on having them removed.
Should I follow the doctor's advice?

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/11/02

Dr. Zhuang Suhui reply Dentistry

Hello: Regarding the first question, if you continue to use silver amalgam for filling, it is not recommended to complete it all at once; it is better to do it in two sessions, one for the left side and one for the right side.
However, if you use composite resin for filling, it can be done in one session.
But due to the influence of the health insurance system, we are practically unable to do this, as each region has restrictions on the number of teeth that can be filled in one visit.
Therefore, unless you are willing to pay out of pocket for dental work, it may not be possible to meet your request.

For the second question, there are many factors to consider when deciding whether to extract wisdom teeth.
Based solely on the information you provided, I cannot make a determination.
You may want to consult another hospital or clinic to hear a different opinion and consider your options.

Reply Date: 2009/11/02

More Info

When it comes to managing dental issues, particularly regarding cavities and the potential extraction of wisdom teeth, it's essential to approach the situation with a clear understanding of your dental health and the recommendations of your dentist.
Firstly, regarding the question of whether to fill multiple cavities at once, this decision largely depends on the extent of the cavities, your overall dental health, and the dentist's professional judgment. If you have around 12 cavities, it is understandable to want to address them all at once to minimize the number of visits and the overall time spent in the dental chair. However, there are several factors to consider:
1. Extent of Cavities: If the cavities are small and manageable, your dentist might agree to fill multiple cavities in one visit. However, if some cavities are more extensive or if there are concerns about the structural integrity of the teeth, your dentist may recommend a staged approach. This allows for a more thorough examination and treatment of each tooth, ensuring that the fillings are done correctly and that the teeth are not compromised.

2. Patient Comfort: Filling multiple cavities in one session can be overwhelming for some patients. The procedure can take a significant amount of time, and the anesthesia used can lead to discomfort or a feeling of numbness that lasts longer than desired. Discussing your comfort level with your dentist is crucial. They can provide options for sedation or breaks during the procedure if needed.

3. Quality of Care: Dentists often prefer to focus on a few teeth at a time to ensure that each filling is done with precision. Rushing through multiple fillings may lead to mistakes or less-than-optimal results. It's essential to prioritize the quality of care over the quantity of work done in one visit.

Regarding the extraction of wisdom teeth, it's important to consider the following:
1. Assessment of Wisdom Teeth: Even if your wisdom teeth do not currently cause pain or appear misaligned, they can still pose problems in the future. Dentists often recommend extraction as a preventive measure, especially if there is a risk of impaction or if the teeth are difficult to clean, which can lead to cavities or gum disease.

2. Long-Term Considerations: Wisdom teeth can create crowding in the mouth, potentially affecting the alignment of your other teeth over time. If your dentist has recommended extraction, it may be based on a thorough examination and X-rays that indicate potential future issues.

3. Personal Preference: Ultimately, the decision to extract wisdom teeth should involve a discussion between you and your dentist. If you feel strongly against the extraction and your dentist agrees that there are no immediate concerns, you may choose to monitor the situation closely. However, it is advisable to have regular check-ups to reassess the condition of your wisdom teeth.

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to fill all cavities in one visit, it is essential to prioritize your comfort and the quality of care. Discuss your concerns with your dentist, who can help create a treatment plan that works for you. As for wisdom teeth, weigh the pros and cons of extraction based on your dentist's recommendations and your own comfort level. Regular dental check-ups and open communication with your dentist will ensure that you maintain optimal oral health.

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