Dental cavity fillings are used to help restore and reshape teeth that have been damaged by decay or fracture. Getting a dental filling allows your tooth to function normally again.
A toothache may be the most common sign that you might need a tooth filling. But, sensitivity to certain temperatures, to pressure, or to sweet foods are also indicators that you need a filling. Finally, if you experience sudden or throbbing pain when biting or chewing, you also might need a tooth filling.
For most cases of tooth decay, a dental cavity filling is a quick and easy solution. However, if the decayed area is too large for a filling to be held in place properly, your dentist may advise you to consider getting a dental crown.
Tooth fillings help dentists repair cavities, so they don’t become bigger dental problems down the road. Fillings can fill small holes caused by tooth decay, but they can also repair cracks and fractures in teeth.
Left untreated, tooth decay can cause serious problems.
Your dentist can design a prevention plan so root canals or even tooth extractions are never needed. Bottom line, tooth fillings are a good thing and they can keep you smiling for a long, long time.