What is a dental filling and when do you need one?
When a tooth has been damaged by decay (in other words, the tooth has a cavity), removing the decay is absolutely crucial. Tooth decay will never resolve on its own, but instead must be removed by your dentist. If the tooth decay is not removed in its early stages the decay will worsen and alternative dental treatments may become necessary. Left untreated, the tooth decay will worsen until the tooth is lost.
Dental fillings are used to treat tooth decay. Your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then “fill” that area with materials that will restore and strengthen the tooth. Dental fillings can also be used to repair cracked, broken, and worn down teeth.
Depending on the type of dental filling materials used, a dental filling typically lasts 5 to 12 years with proper care and routine oral hygiene.
How can you tell if you have tooth decay and need a dental filling?
The most common sign that you have tooth decay is if you are experiencing tooth sensitivity or tooth pain. However, tooth decay very commonly occurs long before a person experiences tooth sensitivity or pain. It is common for tooth decay to go undetected because there may be no signs or symptoms. A dental x-ray may be needed to detect tooth decay.
Routine dental checkups are crucial to detecting tooth decay in its early stages and treating it with a dental filling. If the tooth decay is not treated early, your pain and discomfort will increase and the tooth decay will worsen until the tooth is lost.