Your smile is one of your greatest assets, but tooth trouble often starts silently. Tooth decay can develop unnoticed, only making its presence known when the problem has escalated. Spotting the early signs that you might need a dental filling is crucial for preventing more serious issues. In this blog, we’ll uncover the top five warning signs that your teeth are in distress. Don’t wait until it’s too late—discover how to protect your smile today by contacting us for a checkup!
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are used to restore teeth damaged by decay. When a cavity forms—a small hole caused by bacteria breaking down enamel—a filling repairs the tooth’s structure and function. The decayed portion is removed, and the space is filled with materials like composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain, preventing further damage and maintaining a healthy, functional smile.
5 Early Symptoms Indicating You Need a Dental Filling
1. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
Experiencing sensitivity to hot or cold foods can signal that tooth decay has reached a critical stage, affecting the nerves inside your tooth. This symptom often requires prompt treatment, like a dental filling, to prevent further complications.
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2.Visible Holes or Dark Spots on Teeth
If you see holes or dark spots on your teeth, it’s a clear sign of tooth decay. This happens because the enamel, the outer layer of your tooth, gets damaged and starts to break down. To stop the decay from getting worse, a dental filling is needed to close these holes and protect your tooth.
3. Persistent Toothache or Pain
Persistent toothache often indicates that decay is very advanced and may have reached the inner pulp of the tooth where nerves and vessels are located. A dental filling will restore the structure of your tooth and provide relief from pain. Recognizing these tooth cavity symptoms early on is crucial for preventing further damage and ensuring timely treatment.
4. Sensitivity to Sweet or Sugary Foods
If you find that your teeth are more sensitive to sweet or sugary foods, it might be a sign of enamel wear and early cavity formation. Sugary foods fuel bacteria in your mouth, which produce acids that can damage your tooth enamel. A dental filling can help by closing any cavities and protecting your teeth from further harm.
Recognizing early signs of tooth decay, like sensitivity to sweets, visible holes, or persistent bad breath, is crucial. Addressing these symptoms promptly can prevent more serious problems and ensure you receive the appropriate treatment.
5. Persistent Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste
If you have ongoing bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth, it could be a sign of cavities. Cavities allow germs to grow in your teeth, which can lead to unpleasant smells. A dental filling can fix this problem by removing the decay and sealing the tooth, helping to get rid of the bad odor and keep your mouth fresh.
Book Your Appointment Today
Do not hesitate to get possible dental problems treated. If you’ve noticed something, or if you’re just concerned about your oral health, act now. Schedule your appointment with our dentist in SW Calgary to be on your way to good health—let our experienced team take care of you with individualized, manageable treatment plans.
FAQs
What materials are used to fill teeth?
More common dental filling materials include composite resin, amalgam, gold, and porcelain. The location of the filling, the extent of the decay, and the patient’s desires normally determine the material used.
How long do dental fillings usually last?
The life of a filling is determined by the material and position of the filling. On average, amalgam fillings can last from 10 to 15 years; however, composite fillings last for 5-7 years.
Does it hurt to get a dental filling?
Getting a dental filling is a relatively quick and painless process. Your dentist will numb the spot where the filling will be placed using local anesthesia, so you won’t feel any discomfort while they work on your tooth.
Are there any special care instructions after getting a filling?
After a filling, the teeth must be kept clean by regular brushing and flossing. Avoid taking sticky or hard foods shortly after filling to let the filling set.
Are dental fillings suitable for all kinds of cavities?
Dental fillings are commonly used for both front and back teeth. However, if the decay is extensive, you might need a different type of treatment, such as crowns or root canals.