How Long Does 2 Fillings Take at the Dentist? Your Guide to Appointment Length & What to Expect

Summary:

Wondering how long you’ll be at the dentist for two fillings? You’re not alone. If you have work, school, or other things to do, it helps to know what to expect. This article explains what actually happens during your filling visit, how long it should take, and what things might slow it down. I’ll answer common questions and give tips from real life—so you feel calm and ready for your next dentist visit.

Table of Contents

The Short Answer: How Long for Two Fillings?

Let’s get right to the point. Most people will need about 60 to 90 minutes for two dental fillings. That’s less than two hours, and sometimes you’ll be done quicker if the cavities are small or easy to reach. Your exact time depends on the size and place of your cavities and what type of filling the dentist uses.

Table: Average Dental Filling Times

These are the usual times for most people. Your appointment could be a little shorter or a little longer, but this gives you a good idea.

Why Is This Important to Know?

When you know how long something will take, you can plan what else you need to do that day. Nobody wants to rush or show up late because they weren’t sure how long the dentist office would take. Also, if you feel a little worried about dental visits, knowing what will happen and how long you’ll be there can help you relax. No big surprises means you can feel more in control.

Fillings are a normal part of keeping teeth healthy. By knowing the timing, you’ll know what to expect.

How Does a Dentist Do a Filling?

I’ve had my fair share of dental appointments, and honestly, getting a filling is pretty easy. Here’s what will probably happen:

• Composite fillings (white)—done in layers and each layer is quickly hardened with a blue light.
• Amalgam fillings (silver)—the metal goes in all at once.

Because some steps are the same for both teeth, the time for two fillings isn’t always twice as long.

How Long Does a Single Filling Take?

Here’s how long one filling usually takes:

• Composite (White) Filling: Usually 20 to 45 minutes.
• Amalgam (Silver) Filling: Usually about 30 to 60 minutes.

This is after your mouth is numb. If the cavity is small and easy to reach, your dentist may be even quicker. If it’s deep or hard to reach, it might take more time.

Is Two Fillings Just Double the Time?

It’s easy to think “if one filling is 30 minutes, two will be 60,” but that’s not always how it goes. Here’s why two fillings aren’t always double the time:

• Only One Setup: Your dentist only needs to get ready, numb your mouth, and set up tools one time.
• Easy Flow: Once you’re numb, the dentist moves right from one tooth to the other.
• Check Once: They check both teeth at the end together.

So, getting two fillings usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes without having to stay twice as long. Plus, you only get one shot for numbing.

What Influences the Time for Dental Fillings?

Not every filling appointment is the same. Here’s what can make things go faster or slower:

Type of Filling Material

• Composite Fillings (White): These need to be done in layers and use a light to harden—takes a little extra time.
• Amalgam Fillings (Silver): These go in quicker after cleaning.

Size and Depth of the Cavity

• Small Cavities: Faster to fix.
• Big or Deep Cavities: Need more time to clean and fill.

Tooth Location

• Front Teeth: Easier to get to, so usually faster.
• Back Teeth: Harder to reach, can need more time.

Getting Numb

• Numb Time: 5 to 15 minutes, no matter how many teeth you’re fixing.
• Once numb, the dentist goes right through both fillings.

Patient Factors

• Feeling Jumpy or Nervous: If you need a break, things can take longer.
• Kids or Young Patients: Sometimes need extra time and comfort.

Extra Steps

• Needing X-rays or Cleaning Before: Takes some extra minutes if you need these first.

Dentist and Office Experience

• Well-Trained Team: Sometimes dentist offices with good helpers and new equipment can go really quick.

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What Will Happen When You Arrive?

While every dental office is a little different, appointments usually go like this:

Soon, you’ll rinse, maybe get another quick look by the dentist, and then you’re ready to go.

What If You Feel Nervous?

Lots of people feel jumpy or scared before seeing the dentist. If you do, you’re not strange! I remember holding onto the chair tight one time before a filling, but the dentist talked me through it and that helped a lot.

Ways to Stay Calm:

• Tell the Dentist: Your dentist wants you to feel safe, so let them know if you’re nervous.
• Ask Questions: It’s your mouth! Ask what will happen if you don’t know.
• Listen to Music: Bring headphones to listen to your favorite songs or podcast.

Some offices even let you watch TV or can offer laughing gas (nitrous oxide) to help you relax. Ask when you book your visit.

How Should You Prepare for Your Visit?

Getting ready makes everything easier and helps things move fast.

Easy Prep Checklist:

• Brush and floss before you go—the dentist will like your clean teeth!
• Let the office know any medicine you take.
• Eat a little before your visit. Your mouth might be numb for a couple hours after.
• If you want a break during your filling, just raise your hand and let the dentist know.

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What to Expect After the Appointment?

You made it—great job! Here’s what happens after you leave:

• Numbness: Your lips, tongue, and cheek can stay numb for about 1–3 hours. Eat or drink slowly so you don’t bite yourself.
• Feeling Sensitive: Sometimes your tooth feels tender or weird after a filling—this should go away in a few days.
• Careful Eating: Skip hot drinks or chewing on the numb side until feeling comes back.
• Pain Relief: If it’s sore, you can use ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If your tooth hurts a lot or doesn’t get better, call your dentist.

Your dentist will tell you when it’s safe to eat and what food is best at first—soft stuff like sandwiches, yogurt, or pasta is a good start!

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Can I Get More Than Two Fillings at Once?

Many people ask, “Can I get three or four fillings in one visit?” In most cases, yes! Dentists often fill a few teeth at the same time, especially if the holes are small or close together. This means you spend less time at the dentist and only get numb once.

If you need a lot of fillings, the appointment may be a bit longer. But if you’re okay with it and your dentist agrees, you can get a few teeth fixed in the same visit. Talk to your dentist to see what’s best for you.

Do Fillings Hurt?

To be honest, with the numbing shot most people don’t feel pain during the filling. You might feel some pushing, shaking, or water spray from the drill, but not pain.

After your visit, you could feel a bit sore or sensitive—but this usually goes away in a few days. If you hurt a lot or the tooth stays sensitive, call your dentist so they can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do dental fillings last?

A: Composite (white) fillings last 5–10 years; silver (amalgam) fillings can last up to 15 years or even more.

Q: Can I eat after my filling?

A: Wait until the numbness goes away so you don’t bite your cheek or tongue.

Q: Are white fillings better than silver ones?

A: Both types work! White fillings look more like your own teeth. Silver fillings are strong and last a long time. Your dentist will help you decide.

Q: Do I have to take off work for a filling?

A: Most people go right back to work or school after the dentist.

Q: Can I drive after my dental appointment?

A: Yes, if you only had the numbing shot. If you had laughing gas or medicine that makes you sleepy, you will need someone to drive you.

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Key Takeaways

• Plan on 60–90 minutes for two fillings.
• The exact time depends on the size, spot, and type of filling.
• Most people feel little or no pain because of numbing shots.
• You can usually go back to your normal day after your visit.
• Always ask your dentist any questions—no question is too silly.
• Take care of your new fillings so they last for years.

Don’t skip the dentist because you’re scared or unsure! Little fillings now mean you won’t have bigger tooth problems later.

This article was checked by Dr. Joe Dental, DDS. For personal advice, talk to your own dentist.

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Smile care now means happy smiles later!