5 Signs That You Need a Tooth Filling

Tooth decay can creep up on us quietly, caused by poor oral hygiene, love of sugary foods, or simply from wearing down over time. 

When left untreated, decay can lead to cavities and gum disease or require more extensive treatments, like root canals or crowns, if not addressed promptly.

Signs you may need a filling can vary. However, some main signs to watch for include tooth discomfort, sensitivity, discolouration or marks, and food or floss getting trapped between teeth.

The good news? Professional dental care, like tooth fillings, can safely and effectively stop decay, restoring your smile. 

What Are Tooth Fillings For?

Tooth fillings can treat cavities caused by tooth decay. When decay causes part of a tooth to deteriorate, your dentist can remove the damaged portion and fill the cavity with a durable material to prevent the issue from worsening. 

Common filling materials include gold, porcelain, and composite resin (tooth-coloured plastic). Each material has benefits, which your dentist can discuss with you.

The earlier your dentist can diagnose the problem, the easier it is to resolve, often requiring nothing more than a simple filling. If you wait too long, your tooth may require more intensive treatments or, in severe cases, extraction. 

Signs You Might Have Tooth Decay

But how do you know if a filling might be necessary? Here are 5 things you might notice that could signal tooth decay—and when a filling can help restore your tooth.

A Cracked or Worn-Out Filling

At each of your regular dental visits, your dentist will check on any previous dental work you've had. Just like your natural teeth can experience wear with age, fillings can crack, become loose, or wear down over time, leaving your tooth vulnerable to bacteria and decay. 

If you have a filling, it's helpful to keep an eye on its condition. Contact your dentist immediately if you notice any cracks or if your filling appears to have fallen out.

Why? Because a damaged filling allows bacteria to re-enter the cavity, quickly worsening the decay. Addressing it promptly can save you from more significant restorative treatments, including root canal therapy or a dental implant.

Quick Tip

Run your tongue over the area. If your tooth feels sharp, rough, or uneven, it could be a sign of a cracked filling.

Toothache or Chewing Discomfort

One of the early signs of a cavity is a toothache or discomfort when chewing or biting down. When you experience persistent discomfort in an isolated area, it’s worth getting it checked out. 

Small cavities can expand when left unchecked, causing even more severe toothaches or damage to the tooth’s nerve. Remember, tooth discomfort is your body’s way of alerting you to an issue. A filling might be all that’s needed to preserve your tooth and eliminate the discomfort.

Quick Tip

Take note of when the ache occurs. Is it while eating, drinking, or randomly throughout the day? Sharing this information with your dentist can help in diagnosing the issue.

Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

Do you feel a sudden jolt or twinge in your teeth when sipping hot coffee or enjoying ice cream? 

Sensitivity like this can occur when your enamel becomes damaged or deteriorates. When that protective outer layer weakens or thins, it can expose dentin, creating tiny holes that lead to the tooth’s nerves.

While tooth sensitivity doesn’t always mean you have a cavity, it’s worth mentioning to your dentist if it continues. Using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help, but scheduling a dental visit can help rule out underlying decay.

Quick Tip

Try lukewarm water instead of hot or icy drinks until you can see your dentist.

Visible Cavities or Dark Spots

If you notice a dark spot, a rough texture, or even small holes in the surface of your teeth, you could have a cavity. Cavities often start small and can go unnoticed until they become more prominent. 

At this stage, fluoride treatment or a filling might be enough to save your tooth from further damage.

Dark stains, however, can sometimes be caused by other factors, such as staining from coffee or smoking, so a dentist can make the definitive call on whether it’s decay.

Quick Tip

Use a small mirror to inspect teeth in hard-to-see areas and check for rough edges or visible spots.

Food or Floss Getting Stuck

When food debris or floss consistently gets stuck in the same spot, it could signal damage to your tooth. Overcrowded or crooked teeth, gum disease, and cavities can all cause these issues. Your dentist can examine the affected area to determine the cause of the problem. 

Left unchecked, food stuck in cavities can contribute to further decay and lead to the need for more progressive treatments.

Quick Tip

Floss your teeth daily and pay attention to areas where the floss tears or struggles to glide smoothly.

Protecting Your Teeth from Decay

Consistently practicing proper oral hygiene is an effective way to avoid the need for fillings altogether. Here’s how you can reduce your risk of cavities:

• Brush at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste to clean away plaque & bacteria
• Rinse your mouth with water immediately after meals to help prevent prolonged contact with your teeth
• Rinse with fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen your teeth’s enamel, as recommended by your dentist
• Maintain a balanced diet & limit sugary or acidic foods that can erode your teeth over time
• Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings & check-ups (about twice a year) to help spot potential issues like cavities before they worsen
• Ask your dentist about preventive treatments, such as dental sealants, fluoride treatments, or antibacterial solutions, to help provide an added layer of protection

At Westwood Dental, prevention is part of our mission. Our experienced team offers personalized care to help keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright.

Don’t Ignore the Signs: We Can Help Protect Your Smile

Catching decay and damage early can help save you time, money, and discomfort. If you’re experiencing any signs of tooth decay, don’t wait until the problem gets worse. 

Book an appointment with Westwood Dental today. Our experienced dental professionals are here to help you with dental care that truly prioritizes your smile and oral health.