Even if you maintain a good oral hygiene routine, you can still be susceptible to tooth decay. In fact, cavities are one of the most common oral health issues. If left untreated, cavities can lead to more serious dental trouble. So, if you think you have a cavity, go visit your dentist! They might recommend a filling to prevent further damage and revitalize your smile. Here are 5 signs that you might need a dental filling.
5 Signs You’re Due for a Dental Filling
If you have a cavity, your dentist will likely recommend a dental filling to seal up the hole and protect your smile from further decay. In its earliest stages, tooth decay doesn’t have a lot of obvious symptoms, which is what makes it so dangerous. By the time you begin to feel pain, the cavity will already have become quite large. That’s why it’s important to watch out for common warning signs of cavities, such as:
- A dark spot or hole in your tooth.
- Mild to severe tooth pain.
- Temperature sensitivity to foods and drinks.
- Discomfort when chewing or biting.
- Food suddenly getting caught between teeth.
Even if you can’t see into your mouth for visual indicators, discomfort and sensitivity are helpful tell-tale signs. If you’re unsure, it’s better to be safe than sorry and call your dentist for a consult.
Keeping up with your regular six-month dental checkups and cleanings allows your dentist to monitor your oral health and detect and treat issues like cavities before they cause your smile significant harm. Here are a few of the common causes of tooth decay so you’ll better be able to recognize when you might have a cavity.
Common Culprits of Cavities
Although it’s very strong, enamel isn’t indestructible. Sugars and acids can erode the layers of protection enamel provides your teeth. Even if you’re very dedicated to your oral hygiene routine, there are other factors that can increase your risk of tooth decay.
If you aren’t eating a balanced diet, you are leaving your mouth susceptible to cavities. Eating or drinking sugary treats in excess and not eating enough fruits and vegetables can impact your smile. Say you eat your favorite sweets and think to yourself, “I’ll brush my teeth tonight” and think you’ll get all the particles off then. But, in the hours before bedtime, bacteria feed on those sugars and produce acids that harm your oral health.
Knowing what the usual suspects are for tooth decay lets you get a step ahead and adjust your lifestyle and habits accordingly so that you can prevent cavities from forming.
Ultimately, you and your dentist are a team working to preserve your pearly whites for years to come. If you are noticing signs of tooth decay, you might be due for a dental filling. Have your dentist take a look and determine what filling works best for you.
About the Author
Dr. H. Douglas Clark III has been practicing dentistry with Hill Avenue Dental since 2004. He provides expert, personalized restorative dentistry to keep patients’ smiles healthy and whole. Hill Avenue Dental provides composite fillings to restore your natural beauty and regular functionality for years to come. If you are wondering if you need a dental filling, contact Dr. Clark at his website or by phone at (715) 392-5161.