Top 7 Signs You May Need a Tooth Filling That You Should Be Aware Of

Taking care of your teeth is essential for maintaining good oral health. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups play a vital role in preventing dental issues, including cavities. However, there are times when even the best dental hygiene practices may not be enough to protect your teeth. Cavities can develop due to various reasons, such as mouth injuries or bad habits like using your teeth as tools. If left untreated, cavities can progress to more severe dental problems. Thankfully, tooth fillings can effectively treat cavities and preserve your smile, allowing you to enjoy all kinds of foods without discomfort.

Recognizing the signs that indicate you may need a tooth filling is crucial for prompt dental care. Let's explore the top seven signs that may indicate you require a tooth filling, along with other essential dental problems you should be aware of:

1. Throbbing tooth painExperiencing a throbbing toothache, either temporary or persistent, may indicate the presence of cavities surrounding your teeth. If you feel a sharp pain when chewing, it's essential to have it assessed by a dental professional, as it could be a sign that you need a tooth filling.

2. Sensitive teethTooth sensitivity can affect all your teeth, especially when consuming hot or cold foods. If you notice heightened sensitivity, it might be a sign of cavities. Visiting a dental specialist for an evaluation can determine whether you need tooth fillings.

3. Broken toothA broken tooth can be effectively fixed with various types of tooth-filling materials. For minor breakages, a tooth-filling treatment might be sufficient. Dental specialists can bond your front teeth with a composite resin to fill out damaged areas.

4. Damaged older fillingIf you have an old tooth filling to treat a deep cavity that reached the roots, it's crucial to prevent the filling from loosening. Hard foods or improper dental hygiene can cause the filling to become loose. If this occurs, seek immediate assistance from a dental specialist to have it replaced with a new filling.

5. Bad breath
Bad breath can develop when food particles accumulate under a loose filling. This accumulation occurs when a filling becomes dislodged. The accumulated food starts to decay, resulting in a foul odor. To avoid dental caries and extreme sensitivity, don’t put off addressing the problem promptly replace a loose filling by consulting your dental specialist.

6. Tooth wearAs you age, your tooth enamel naturally wears down, leading to flattened and unsightly biting edges. Additionally, unconscious teeth grinding during sleep can contribute to enamel erosion and even lead to chipping or breakage. Tooth fillings can help repair tooth surfaces, improving your bite and ability to chew. A dental specialist can design a custom mouthguard to wear at night, protecting your teeth from further damage after filling.

7. Changes in the color of the old fillingSometimes, dental fillings that are old can lose their initial color with time. As a result, instead of blending in with the rest of the tooth, they could stand out and make your pearly whites less aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, if you recently had your teeth whitened, your filling can look quite unsightly because the whitening effect won't apply to it. To address the problem, the best option is usually to get it replaced.

The bottom lineDon't wait until any of the symptoms listed above become more serious, and see a dental professional as soon as possible. Your dentist will examine your teeth and decide whether silver amalgam, porcelain, composite resin, or gold fillings are required to preserve your dental health.