Dark Spots & Sensitivity: How to Tell if You Need a Dental Filling

Are you being haunted by a toothache that won’t go away? When you look at your troubled tooth, do you see a noticeable dark spot? These may be signs that you need a dental filling. This treatment is great at repairing damage from tooth decay, but you should be aware of other symptoms that point to you needing care right away. Continue reading to learn more about when you may need this restorative dental service.

How Do I Know I Need a Dental Filling?

The bacteria in your mouth produce acid from the leftover sugar and starches that get stuck on your teeth after eating. They erode your enamel and expose the sensitive dentin underneath. When this happens, it isn’t the most pleasant experience. You may start to notice:

• Pain when biting and chewing
• Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, and overly sweet items

While these can make eating a bit more annoying, they aren’t the only symptoms of a cavity. You may have a persistent toothache that won’t go away or see a dark spot on the affected tooth. Additionally, when you try flossing around it, the thread may consistently break there, showing that the enamel is now uneven.

Aside from a bacteria-related reason, sometimes you may get a dental filling to restore some damage. If you had an old filling come loose or break, then replacing it will help protect your tooth and prevent any oral health issues. This treatment can even help restore minor chips and cracks.

What Should I Expect When Getting a Dental Filling?

When you go to your dentist for help, they will first take an X-ray to see the extent of the damage. This will give them a better idea if a dental filling will be perfect for you or if another treatment will be more beneficial. If the former is what’s needed, then the damaged parts of your tooth will be removed. Your dentist will fill these areas with a tooth-colored composite resin. This type of restoration will blend into your teeth seamlessly, so you don’t have to worry about it looking noticeable. Some dental offices may still offer silver amalgam fillings, but it’s worth mentioning that they have a metal look to them, which many people don’t like.

Regardless, a dental filling is a great solution to fix a cavity. They are effective at restoring your tooth without needing major prep like a crown. In the end, you’ll have a spruced-up smile without the nagging toothache!

About the Practice

At Dental Expressions, you benefit from a dynamic duo dentist team that wants the best for you and your oral health. We offer many types of restorative treatments, such as dental fillings. With natural-looking solutions, your smile will look just as great as it did before! By personalizing your care, you can feel confident about knowing that you are getting the best for you and your teeth. If you have a nagging toothache, schedule an appointment or call us at (920) 788-6280.