Sometimes, as they say, when you know, you know. You can tell that your car’s flat tire needs air, and you can even tell when the temperature drops you should probably put on a jacket. But what about when you need a dental filling? Tooth problems like decay or cavities aren’t always obvious. Here’s a closer look at some indicators that it’s time to see a dentist to have your tooth examined, and a few tips for avoiding cavities altogether!
What is a Dental Filling?
You may have heard of dental fillings before, but you may not know exactly what they are. Essentially, they are tooth restorations that replace a damaged portion that has either been lost due to injury or removed by your dentist to protect the healthy portion. In years past, many dentists relied on amalgam metal fillings to safeguard the teeth, however they left much to be desired. While effective at protecting the teeth, they were certainly not discreet. In fact, many patients were embarrassed to open their mouths to smile or speak and reveal dark spots in their arches.
The good news is that today’s dental fillings are much more natural looking and safer than those older amalgam metal varieties. Made of durable, tooth-colored composite resin, they last about as long as their predecessors, but blend in seamlessly with your smile and do not pose any of the risks of having numerous metal fillings, which in recent years have been found to raise blood mercury levels in people who had more than eight.
How Do I Know if I Need a Filling?
There are many reasons why you might need a filling. Whether it’s due to an infected tooth, decay, cavities, or even a chip, your dentist is ultimately the best person to determine whether a filling is the best solution to your problem. However, if you are experiencing any of the following, it is likely that you may are a good candidate for this treatment:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, acidic, or sweet foods and beverages.
- A sharp, throbbing pain in the tooth.
- Pain when biting or chewing.
- A hole or dark spot that you can see or feel in the tooth.
- Floss that tears in the same spot.
- A rough tooth.
- A broken tooth.
- An existing broken filling.
- A chipped, cracked, or fractured tooth.
- A missing filling.
What Can I Do to Prevent Cavities?
The great news is that cavities are one of the easiest dental problems to prevent. In fact, most can be avoided with an excellent dental hygiene routine that includes brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist twice a year for your regular, biannual exam and cleaning appointments. Furthermore, do your best to avoid eating a diet that’s high in sugar, smoking, or using your teeth as tools. If you have bruxism (teeth grinding), speak to you dentist about getting a custom mouthguard made to keep your smile safe while you sleep.
Remember, while the best way to determine whether you need a filling is to see your dentist, if you notice any of the above warning signs, don’t hesitate to reach out ahead of your regular, preventive appointment for assistance so your tooth looks and feels better as soon as possible!
About Our Practice
At Distinctive Dentistry, our trio of caring and talented dentists want you to have a beautiful, pain-free smile. If you are experiencing any signs of dental damage and think you could have a cavity, don’t wait until your regular check-up to come in. Give us a call today so we can restore your gorgeous grin with the help of a durable, lifelike tooth-colored filling. To schedule an appointment for fillings, visit our website or call us today at 770-445-6606.
