When is a Tooth Filling Needed?
Tooth filling is one of the more common dental procedures to repair a damaged tooth or stop a further breakdown. Fillings are most closely linked with cavities, they can also be used to treat damage caused by fractures and enamel wear. Knowing when you need a filling will help maintain healthy oral health and avoid more serious dental matters.
When Should You Seek a Tooth Filling?
1. Toothache or Pain
A toothache that won’t go away is a pretty clear sign you may need a filling. The pain may be constant, or the pain may be triggered by eating or drinking — particularly if the food is cold, hot, or sweet. If decay reaches the inner layer of the tooth, called the pulp, it contains nerves and blood vessels, and can hurt.
2. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
A sensitivity to temperature changes will usually tell you that the tooth’s enamel has begun to break down, exposing the dentin layer underneath. Microscopic tubules in dentin connect to a tooth’s nerve, and if exposed, can cause pain when you eat or drink hot or cold foods. It often means that a filling is required to protect the tooth structure.
3. Visible Dark Spots on Teeth
First, cavities commonly begin as tiny dark spots scattered across the tooth’s enamel that sometimes progress, over time, into bigger visible holes. They may be black, brown or even white, and mean that bacteria has eaten away the enamel on these spots. If you see spots like these, then that’s a sure sign of decay and you’ll probably need a filling.
4. Chipped or Broken Tooth
Trauma, grinding or biting on something very hard which leads to chipping and breaking of the teeth. These fractures destroy the tooth’s protective structure and leave it vulnerable to decay and more damage. A filling can improve your tooth’s shape and strength, limiting your ability to have bacteria enter it and cause infections.
Tooth Fillings Causes
Tooth Decay or Cavities
Fillings are commonly done to repair tooth decay, which can result from poor oral hygiene, a sugary diet, and little or no regular visits to the dentist. Sugars are eaten by the bacteria in the mouth, producing acids that consume the enamel and with it cavity. Fillings prevent decay from spreading down to lower layers of the tooth.
Fractured or Damaged Teeth
Fractures can occur as the result of an accident, such as falls or sports injuries. Cracks or chips can also happen because you chew hard foods. If these fractures are not treated they allow bacteria to get into the tooth and cause the tooth to decay.
Bruxism ‐ Wear and Tear from Grinding
Over time, both bark or clenching of teeth known as bruxism will wear away enamel. The pressure is continuous and it can cause microfractures or thin the surface of your tooth increasing sensitivity and making it vulnerable to decay. These worn surfaces can be treated with fillings, to protect against further damage and restore function.
Types of Tooth Fillings
Composite (Tooth Colored) Fillings.
Composite fillings are a favorite because they are a good match to the normal color of your tooth. Small to medium cavities and visible teeth are best suited. Composite fillings actually have an aesthetic advantage, but they may not last as long in heavily used back teeth as other materials.
Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
To be on the safe side, we avoid amalgam fillings due to their combination of metal, which is relatively durable and cheap. These are strong and lasting, but because of their metallic appearance they are not the best choice for front teeth, so are used in the back teeth.
Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings are long lasting, stain resistant and look tooth-like. Higher priced than other sorts, ceramic fillings offer a nice combination of durability and function making them a smart selection for those wanting both beauty and comfort.
Post-Procedure Sensitivity
Proper Oral Hygiene
With good oral hygiene the filling will hold and certainly decrease the risk of further decay. Brushing, flossing and regular use of mouthwash is the one way of protecting the teeth and the filling too.
Avoiding Hard Foods
Do not bite into hard foods like ice or use the teeth to open packaging, to help prevent damage. Some of these actions can actually weaken and even crack fillings.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental visits to the best dentist in Karachi are necessary because they enable your dentist to monitor any possible problems and stop them from getting any worse.
Conclusion
Restoring and maintaining dental health requires fillings. Detecting and treating signs of decay early will help avoid problems and keep the natural structure of your teeth. If you find that you’re experiencing symptoms such as pain or sensitivity it’s likely you’ll need a filling so have your dentist take a look. Proactive care and regular dental visits can help to keep a healthy bright smile for years to come.
