Dental fillings are a common procedure used to repair damaged teeth. The procedure involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling the cavity with a suitable material, such as amalgam, composite resin, or glass ionomer cement. To ensure patient comfort during the procedure, dentists typically administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth.
Local anesthesia works by blocking nerve signals in the target area, resulting in temporary loss of sensation. This allows the dentist to perform the filling procedure without causing pain or discomfort to the patient. The type of anesthetic used and the method of administration may vary depending on the patient's dental history, the extent of the procedure, and the dentist's preference.