Dental fillings are one of the most common treatments used to repair decayed or damaged teeth. Fillings protect the damaged surface and also help prevent any further decay.
The earlier you treat a cavity, the better your chances of fixing it simply with a dental filling. Recognizing the signs that you may need a dental filling can help you seek treatment before the problem becomes more serious.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is often one of the earliest signs of tooth decay. You might experience sensitivity when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods or drinks. While occasional sensitivity can have many causes, persistent sensitivity should be evaluated by your dentist.
Dental cavities can lead to the exposure of the soft tissue inside the tooth and make it sensitive to temperature changes and particular foods. A dental filling can close the affected area.
Pain When Biting or Chewing
Pain while biting or chewing may indicate that a cavity has weakened the tooth. The further the decay progresses, the more likely it is for the tooth to become weak and not be able to withstand the pressure of chewing.
Neglecting this symptom could result in more serious damage developing over time. It is possible for early treatment to repair the tooth prior to the formation of a more serious cavity.
Visible Holes, Dark Spots, or Damage
Some cavities become visible as they progress. You might see a small opening in the tooth, a rough spot, or discoloration of the tooth’s surface. In some instances, a chip or wear on the tooth will increase its vulnerability to tooth decay.
Even if the damaged area is not painful, a dentist should examine it. Treating small problems early often helps prevent more extensive damage.
Food Frequently Sticks Between Teeth
If food frequently gets stuck in the same area between your teeth, it may indicate a cavity or a change in the tooth’s shape that creates a space where bacteria can collect.
The dental filling will restore the tooth’s natural shape, hence making it easy to clean while brushing or flossing.
Regular Dental Exams Help Detect Cavities Early
Every cavity does not necessarily cause visible symptoms. Some spots of decay start slowly, and only during a regular dental check-up can your dentist discover them.
Cavities are detected by your dentist visually or through dental X-rays, even before you feel pain from them. Routine checkups allow dentists to treat small areas of decay before they require more complex procedures.
Schedule an Appointment
In case you have sensitive teeth, experience pain when chewing, or see any change in the color of your tooth, you should consider a dental visit as soon as possible in order to preserve your tooth and avoid the need for further treatment in the future.
The staff of Cinco Ranch Family Dentistry offers customized dental care to patients of all age groups. Contact us to find out if dental fillings can restore your tooth to health.