Do you feel pain when biting down or sensitivity when consuming hot or cold foods? If you’re experiencing these sensations, you may need to search for a “dentist near me.” Visit a dentist in Miami Gardens to discuss your concerns and find a solution. There may be an underlying issue, such as tooth decay or a cavity, that needs to be addressed.
Dental restorations are designed to repair decaying teeth and restore their shape and function. Wondering if you may need a filling? We’re going to explain what dental fillings are, their benefits, and the signs you might need one.
What is a dental filling?
A tooth filling is a restorative dental procedure that repairs damage from tooth decay or a cavity. The dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth, clean the area, and then fill the hole with a dental filling material. Common dental filling materials include amalgam, composite resin, gold, or porcelain.
Fillings restore tooth structure and seal the tooth to prevent further decay. Tooth decay is extremely common among Americans. Almost 90% of adults have had tooth decay, and the average person has five to eight dental fillings in their mouth. 1
Benefits of tooth fillings
Why should you get a tooth filling? The benefits of dental fillings include:
- Prevention of further decay
- Relief from pain, discomfort, and sensitivity
- Restoration of the tooth structure
- Better aesthetics
Tooth fillings are highly recommended for those with tooth decay or damage to restore function and protect against further damage.
Top signs you need a tooth filling
There are a number of signs and symptoms that indicate you may need a dental filling. These signs range from pain to experiencing dental trauma from an accident or injury.
Pain or sensitivity
Many people who need a tooth filling experience pain when eating or biting down. Additionally, sensitivity to hot or cold foods can indicate you have a cavity or tooth decay.2 Your mouth may throb while eating or be extremely sensitive to sugary foods or beverages. Pain and sensitivity should be eliminated once you get a filling.
Visible changes to your teeth
If you notice physical changes in your teeth, such as dark spots or white spots, it can signal tooth decay. Additionally, holes, pits, or rough or jagged edges are other visible signs of decay. Schedule an appointment with your dentist if you notice visible changes in your teeth.
Floss shredding
When flossing, you may notice that the floss tears on a specific tooth due to its rough edges. Floss shredding can be one of the signs people notice when a cavity is developing. Your tooth may have changed shape, and that’s why the floss is snagging on it.
Persistent bad breath
If you notice you have bad breath that just won’t seem to go away, you may have tooth decay. The foul odor can be caused by bacteria from cavities or tooth decay. If brushing and flossing your teeth doesn’t help the odor, you may need a filling.
Damage to previous restoration
If you’ve had a previous filling but notice discoloration or dark edges around the filling, it can signal decay or leakage. It could be surface staining, but it’s best to get it checked if you notice any color changes.
Moreover, if an old filling feels loose or cracked, your restoration may need replacement. It can’t do its job if it is loose or cracked, so it’s important to call your dentist promptly.
Food trapping
Similar to floss shredding, if you notice that food keeps getting trapped around a certain tooth, you may have a cavity.
Dental trauma
If you’ve experienced a hard impact or taken trauma to the mouth, there’s a chance you have a cracked tooth that needs filling. Maybe you bit down on something too hard or got injured playing sports. Either way, dental trauma can result in fractured teeth that require a filling for repair.
Why you shouldn’t delay getting your tooth filled
Putting off getting a tooth filled can lead to worsening decay, causing more costly and complex dental issues. It’s important to call your dentist right away when you suspect you need a filling. You don’t want to allow irreversible cavity growth or increase pain and sensitivity. Call a dentist in Miami Gardens today for guidance.
Sources:
1 National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Dental Caries (Tooth Decay) in Adults (Ages 20 to 64 Years)
2 Mayo Clinic: Cavities and tooth decay
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