by Dental fillings are common dental restorations used to fill cavities and repair damaged teeth. They are made of different materials, such as amalgam, composite, and gold. Dental fillings can last several years but can also fail or deteriorate over time. This article will discuss three signs that your dental filling is going bad.
But First, What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are a common dental treatment used to repair and restore teeth damaged by cavities or other forms of tooth decay. The filling material is placed into the cavity after the decayed portion of the tooth has been removed and then shaped and polished to match the natural contour of the tooth. Dental fillings are a simple and effective way to restore the function and appearance of teeth damaged by decay.
3 Signs Your Dental Filling is Going Bad
1. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
One of the most common signs that your dental filling is going bad is sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. If you experience discomfort or pain when you eat or drink hot or cold foods, it could indicate that your filling is failing. This sensitivity results from the filling becoming loose or cracked, allowing hot or cold temperatures to reach the tooth’s nerve.
If you experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, scheduling an appointment with your dentist is important. Your dentist will examine your tooth and determine if the filling needs to be replaced. Ignoring this symptom can lead to further damage to the tooth, and you may eventually require a more invasive dental procedure.
2. Pain or Discomfort When Biting Down
Another sign that your dental filling is going bad is pain or discomfort when biting down. If you experience sharp pain or discomfort when you bite down on food could be a sign that your filling has become loose or cracked. This can cause pressure on the tooth’s nerve, leading to pain or discomfort.
If you experience pain or discomfort when biting down, seeing your dentist as soon as possible is important. Your dentist will examine your tooth and determine the cause of the pain. In some cases, the filling may need to be replaced. In other cases, a more invasive dental procedure may be required.
3. Visible Damage to the Filling
The most obvious sign that your dental filling is going bad is visible damage to the filling itself. If you can see cracks, chips, or other damage to the filling, it likely needs to be replaced. Visible damage to the filling can occur due to wear and tear over time, biting on hard or crunchy foods, or trauma to the tooth.
If you notice visible damage to your filling, scheduling an appointment with your dentist is important. Your dentist will examine the filling and determine the best course of action. In some cases, the filling may be able to be repaired. In other cases, the filling may need to be replaced entirely.
Conclusion
Dental fillings are important dental restorations that can help to restore damaged teeth. However, they can also fail or deteriorate over time. Suppose you experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, pain or discomfort when biting down, or visible damage to your filling. In that case, seeing your dentist as soon as possible is important. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to further damage to the tooth and may require more invasive dental procedures. Your dentist can help to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action to restore your tooth to optimal health.
Do you need assistance with your dental filling in Leesburg? Leesburg Bright Dental is here to help. Our highly trained and experienced can recommend the best treatment options to improve your smile. Book an appointment today!
