How do you know when you need a filling?
Ouch, tooth pain. When you bite down on a piece of ice or chew a tough piece of meat, tooth sensitivity or pain can seem to appear out of nowhere. But how do you know whether it is simply sensitivity or a cavity that may need a filling?
What Is a Cavity?
Cavities are small holes or areas of tooth decay that form on the surface of the teeth. They are very common. According to the Cleveland Clinic, more than 80% of Americans have at least one cavity by the time they reach their mid-thirties.
Possible Signs of a Cavity
Tooth decay on the outer layer of the enamel does not usually cause pain or discomfort. In many cases, tooth decay can go unnoticed, especially when regular dental exams are skipped. Once decay creates a hole in the enamel and reaches the dentin or pulp, symptoms may begin to appear, including:
A bad taste in your mouth
Bleeding gums or signs of gum disease
Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
Toothache
Treatment for Tooth Decay
One important reason to keep up with twice-yearly dental visits is so your WoodSprings dental team can catch signs of tooth decay early. When caught in the very early stages, fluoride treatments can potentially repair weakened enamel. Once a hole forms in the tooth, however, the dentist will need to remove the decay and place a dental filling.
Composite Dental Fillings
At WoodSprings Dentistry, Drs. Samantha and James Tejada provide high-quality dental fillings for patients in Spring, The Woodlands, and surrounding areas. Dental fillings are one of the most effective ways to restore teeth affected by cavities or minor damage, helping protect a healthy, functional, and natural-looking smile.
When it comes to treating cavities, fillings are the most common treatment option. During a filling procedure, Dr. Tejada will remove the decayed portion of the tooth, clean the affected area, and then fill the cleaned-out cavity with a filling material. This procedure seals off entry points for bacteria, preventing further decay.
What to Expect During a Dental Filling Procedure
At WoodSprings Dentistry, a dental filling is typically a quick, comfortable procedure completed in a single visit and generally includes the following steps:
Numbing the Area: A local anesthetic helps keep the procedure comfortable.
Decay Removal: The dentist carefully removes decayed tooth material and cleans the area.
Filling Placement: Durable materials like composite resin (tooth-colored) or amalgam are used to restore your tooth.
Final Check: The filling is shaped, polished, and checked to ensure proper bite and comfort.
Early treatment with dental fillings helps preserve tooth structure, protect oral health, and prevent costly procedures in the future.
Contact your dentist if you notice any changes in your oral health or experience any symptoms.
If you notice tooth sensitivity, suspect a cavity, or are due for a routine dental exam, don’t wait. At WoodSprings Dentistry, Drs. Samantha and James Tejada provide personalized, high-quality dental care focused on protecting and restoring your smile.