Do I Need a Cavity Filling?

Do you feel like you need another filling every time you see the dentist? But why do you need them? And how do these fillings actually benefit you?

Dental practices like Bella Smiles of Riverhead, Roslyn and Nesconset on Long Island, NY, want you to know the warning signs that you might need a filling. We’ll show you what to expect when getting a filling and how you should care for them.

Why Do You Need A Filling?

When food particles and saliva combine, they form a sticky substance and coat your teeth with plaque. If you don’t remove plaque through regular brushing and flossing, then bacteria will begin breaking down this buildup.

The digestive acids that these bacteria release will keep eating your healthy tooth enamel beneath it. This is tooth decay. If allowed to continue, it will eventually weaken your enamel and cause a hole in it. Cavities expose the inside of your tooth, making it vulnerable to nerve sensitivity and even infection.

How Do You Recognize Decay?

• Dark spots or greyish black areas on your front teeth
• Chipped off areas that your tongue often finds
• Holes where food gets stuck

If you see or are experiencing any of the above, it’s time to make an appointment to see your dentist.

What Does Decay Feel Like?

You may first notice a cavity when you feel a mild sensitivity to cold or hot liquids or to sweet foods or drinks. If not treated at that stage, the tooth decay may progress to prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. Then it will cause discomfort when biting or chewing.

Eventually, tooth decay will manifest as an electric sensation or sudden sensitivity when eating certain foods. It will eventually lead to constant pain that lasts for hours and must be relieved using medication.

How Does the Dentist Choose A Filling?

Fillings once consisted of silver amalgam, and later out of materials like glass ionomer. In the world of modern dentistry, the most widely used material for fillings is composite resin. Resin is a tooth-colored material that’s soft when applied but hardens when cured with a UV light. The reaction causes it to chemically bond to your teeth.

What Should I Expect After a Filling?

Once you’ve had a permanent composite filling placed, you can pretty much get back to your normal routine right away. You can eat as soon as you leave the office without restrictions. Your tooth will feel as good as new, and the filling will blend in so well that it’ll be hard to tell it’s even there.

That said, it’s normal to feel some mild to moderate sensitivity in the filled tooth for a day or two. This should go away on its own within 48 hours. You might also notice that the filling feels a little off at first. Over time, it’ll wear down naturally and feel just like the rest of your teeth.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

While fillings are a great way to fix cavities, it’s even better to avoid them altogether. Here’s how you can keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free:

• Brush Twice a Day: Use a fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth thoroughly every morning and night.
• Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach.
• Use Mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help kill cavity-causing bacteria and freshen your breath.
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular checkups and cleanings are key to catching problems early and keeping your smile in the best state.

Your dentist can also give your teeth an extra layer of protection with treatments like dental sealants or fluoride applications. Sealants fill in the grooves of your teeth to keep food from getting stuck. Fluoride treatments help strengthen your enamel by attracting more calcium.

By sticking to these simple habits, you can keep your teeth healthy and avoid the need for fillings in the future.

How Long Will My Filling Last?

Despite what many people think, fillings do not last forever. In fact, they usually only last anywhere from 3-7 years on average. However, your dentist should examine them regularly at routine appointments to make sure they are still holding up.

If you notice any discoloration, darkening, or chipping under or around the filling, schedule an appointment with your dentist. This could mean that you need a replacement filling.

Visit Bella Smiles for a consultation about a possible cavity or any dental concern you have. Schedule a dental exam at our Riverhead (631- 591-3243), Roslyn (516-801-6777) or Nesconset (631-724-0094) offices today.