Can I get a dental filling without an injection?

If the thought of a needle makes you hesitate to book your dental appointment, you’re not alone.

Many patients ask us whether it’s possible to have a filling done without an injection — and the good news is that, in many cases, the answer is yes!

Why Injections Are Used for Fillings

Traditionally, a local anaesthetic is injected into the gum to numb the tooth and surrounding tissue before a filling. This ensures you stay comfortable while we remove decay and restore your tooth. However, not every filling requires this level of anaesthesia, and modern dental technology offers alternatives.

When You Might Not Need an Injection

If your cavity is small and only affects the outer layer of your tooth (the enamel), the procedure can often be completed comfortably without an injection. The enamel doesn’t have nerves, so removing a shallow area of decay typically causes little to no discomfort.

Your dentist will always check the depth of the cavity before starting to make sure you stay pain-free throughout the treatment.

When You Might Need an Injection

If the decay has reached the inner layers of the tooth, where the nerves are located (the dentine or pulp), you’ll likely need a local anaesthetic to stay completely comfortable. In these cases, removing decay can cause sensitivity or pain without numbing the area first.

Your dentist will recommend an injection if it’s the best way to ensure a pain-free and stress-free experience. The anaesthetic works quickly, and you’ll remain fully awake and relaxed while we restore your tooth safely and effectively.

Comfort Is Always the Priority

Your comfort matters to us as much as the quality of your care. At our practice, we’ll assess your tooth, explain all your options, and choose the most comfortable and effective approach for your situation.

If you’re nervous about injections, just let us know — we’re here to help make your dental visit as comfortable, stress-free and pain-free as possible! :)