Dental Decay: Tell-tale Signs That You May Need a Tooth Filling

Inadequate oral hygiene and poor dietary choices can lead to many dental problems, including cavities. But how to know if you need a dental filling? Dental cavities start as minor caries with no pain, and that’s where many people fall into their trap. Since dental cavities don’t cause pain initially, most people don’t pay too much attention to them. Unfortunately, if you fail to treat a cavity, it develops into a larger hole and eventually penetrates the pulp, causing pain and inflammation. At this stage, failure to address the issue may necessitate tooth extraction to preserve your dental well-being.

Montclair Dental Care, Oakland, California, uses composite dental fillings to repair tooth decay, allowing your tooth to stay healthy and continue functioning. While a dentist can spot cavities during routine exams, it would help if you could identify cavities between appointments. 

Here are some signs that indicate it’s time to get a dental filling.

Persistent toothache

Tooth pain isn’t normal, so you should have it checked sooner by your dentist. Specifically, if you experience pain when chewing or biting, it’s a sign you have a cavity that requires a tooth filling.

Tooth Sensitivity

It’s good news you don’t have a toothache. However, if you experience tooth sensitivity when taking cold or hot drinks, it’s a sign of slow tooth decay or growing cavities. Since tooth sensitivity won’t disappear on its own, please see a dentist immediately to determine whether you need a tooth filling.  

Visible signs

Cavities come in all shapes and sizes. If you have interproximal cavities (between teeth) or root cavities, only a dentist can detect them using digital X-rays. However, if you run your tongue over your tooth and feel a hole or rough/jagged edges, it’s a clear-cut sign you need a dental filling. 

Sometimes, dark spots, chipped or broken teeth, and food getting stuck in certain tooth spots could indicate cavities. Don’t ignore these symptoms. See a dentist for appropriate treatment.

Affordable tooth fillings near me

Untreated cavities cause pain, leading to other health complications, including dental abscesses and tooth loss. 

Please call (510) 328-7792 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kenneth Childers to restore your tooth with tooth-colored fillings.

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