Do I Need a Filling?
Fillings are a common dental treatment used to repair small and developing cavities or chips. Thanks to modern dental techniques, the procedure is typically painless and takes about an hour or less to complete.
The sooner a cavity is treated, the better the outcome for your tooth. Regular check-ups allow your dentist to detect any issues at an early stage, saving you both time and money.
Dental decay may not always cause symptoms at first, so it is important to be aware of the warning signs. Dr Jennifer Collins, our lead general dentist, outlines six signals that you may need a filling.
Six signs that you may need a filling
#1 Tooth Sensitivity
Although tooth sensitivity is a common condition, it can also be an early indicator of more serious dental problems. Does one of your teeth feel sensitive when exposed to hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods?
#2 Consistent toothache
If you experience ongoing toothache, your dentist will need to assess the underlying cause. Toothache may not necessarily be concentrated in a particular area, and may present as either a dull ache or sharp pains.
#3 Bad breath
Persistent bad breath can be a sign of underlying tooth decay. As a cavity develops and deepens, food and debris can become lodged in it, creating an ideal environment for smelly oral bacteria to grow.
#4 A hole or dark spot
If you look in your mouth and notice a dark spot forming on a tooth, or a visible hole, this may be a sign that a cavity is developing. To prevent long-term damage, your dentist will need to address the issue as soon as possible.
#5 Damaged old fillings
In some cases, tooth decay can cause old fillings to become loose or fall out completely. If a previous filling is cracked, broken or missing, it may need to be replaced to prevent further issues or pain.
#6 Broken floss
When you floss at home, does the string tear each time you floss a particular tooth? If the floss begins to break or fray, this may be a sign that the tooth is becoming sharp and jagged as a result of tooth decay.
If you experience any signs or symptoms of tooth decay, contact your dentist as soon as possible. Click here book an appointment at Northumberland Dental Care.
