Many people encounter a common question during dental fillings: why does the dentist use tools to drill the tooth? Experts explain that drilling serves to remove decayed tissue. Without this removal, the filling material is prone to dislodgement. Below, experts provide a detailed explanation.
Typically, drilling during a filling serves two purposes: First, it removes decayed tooth structure. Without this removal, decay would continue to progress. Additionally, filling material placed directly over soft decayed tissue is prone to falling out.Second, to shape the cavity into a specific form after removing decay, ensuring the filling material adheres securely and withstands chewing pressure without loosening, falling out, or fracturing.
Thanks to technological advancements, modern dental drills operate at extremely high speeds—reaching hundreds of thousands of revolutions per minute—and feature water spray cooling systems. This reduces irritation and minimizes discomfort. Shallow cavities typically cause no pain during drilling.Moderately deep cavities may cause mild discomfort or a sour sensation during drilling. Patients should cooperate fully to complete shallow or moderate cavities in a single visit, achieving optimal results. Restored teeth remain highly functional.
For acute pulpitis patients, dentists administer anesthesia, eliminating pain during drilling.For apical periodontitis patients, since the pulp nerves have already died, drilling causes no pain. Moreover, if the apical periodontitis has become abscessed, opening the pulp chamber can provide a sense of relief, reducing the original pain. Therefore, when your dentist needs to drill during treatment, set aside any concerns or nervousness and cooperate fully to achieve a quick and effective outcome.