Having to undergo any treatment, you like to know what’s coming and why you need it. With dental fillings, the first restorative treatment, your tooth decay or damage is still in the early stages of forming. As a result, you don’t need root canal treatment—you just need something to repair the surface of the tooth. But how can you know if you need just a filling to get your smile back on track? How can you tell if your tooth only requires a filling?
Your Dentist Tells You During Your Checkup and Cleaning Appointment.
While you may notice signs or symptoms of a tooth in need of a filling, sometimes, your dentist points it out before you realize it’s there. Typically, your dentist will use an intraoral camera or identify the area in an X-ray to show you the cavity. Obviously, you have the final say about whether to move forward to get the filling, but in the case of tooth decay, it’s better to receive this less invasive treatment and take care of the problem before it gets worse and more painful. For this reason and many others, make sure you attend your regular checkup and cleaning dental visits.
You Feel Sensitivity in One Tooth.
Cavities and toothaches often start as sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugary substances. If you find yourself avoiding contact with a certain tooth, it could indicate a developing problem that needs to be addressed with a filling. It could also be a sign of enamel wear, which isn’t a dental emergency, but waiting does nothing to help and only allows the issue to continue to develop. Only your dentist can tell you for sure if treatment is necessary.
Your Old Filling Has Come Out.
Fillings don’t last forever, so if you feel your existing one has broken or been lost, it’s time to get a new one. Otherwise, the tooth becomes exposed to oral bacteria and could develop a deeper cavity, causing you discomfort and potentially putting the tooth at risk of serious damage. Basically, the sooner you can replace the filling, the better!
You Notice a Dark Spot or Hole in a Tooth.
Although it can be difficult to identify the signs of an early cavity, it’s not impossible. You may see a darkening area on your enamel or a small hole starting to form. Perhaps you feel your floss catch or even break in the same spot every night. This little symptom can easily be overlooked, but if you pay close attention, you may notice it on your own.
Ultimately, the only person who can definitively determine whether you need a filling or not is your dentist. As a result, it’s important to meet with them often, establishing trust and a history of your oral health. They can keep a close eye on your teeth and immediately act if they see something suspicious. Because of this proactive approach, you can avoid having to go through more physical pain, paying higher costs for treatment, and spending more time in the chair.
About the Author
After a short career in pharmaceuticals, Dr. Alison Garrad realized working with people one-on-one was her true calling. She graduated from Texas A&M School of Dentistry, and she continues to refine her knowledge and skills through advanced training coursework. She now owns and operates Stone Street Dental in Greenville, and she has experience with complex implant treatment, she encourages prevention and early intervention whenever possible. Do you have a tooth you’re worried about? Let Dr. Garrad take a look! Contact us online or call our office at 903-741-4492.