Most of us will require at least one dental filling in our lifetime, but how do you know whether this is a treatment you might need? Dental fillings in London can restore or even save a damaged tooth, but they can also be used for other things, so today we’re looking at why a dental filling might be necessary, and how you can tell.
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What Is A Dental Filling?
If you’re in the lucky minority that has never needed a filling, then you may not be completely sure what they even are. In essence, dentist fillings are designed to fill holes that have formed in the tooth through decay, otherwise known as cavitites. By doing so, fillings help to prevent bad bacteria from getting in the hole and preventing further decay.
Before your dental filling is done, your dentist will first ensure the area is clear of any bacteria, cleaning the affected area deeply, before filling it. You will be given the opportunity to choose the type of filling you’d like, as there are a range of materials available, depending on your budget, including:
- Gold Fillings
- Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
- Composite Resins
- Porcelain Fillings
Although a dental filling may not always be the best solution where tooth decay has taken place, it is a popular way to restore the function and shape of a damaged tooth.
Why Might You Need A Dental Filling?
Although dental fillings are most commonly associated with cavities, there are actually a number of reasons for why you might need a dentists filling. Here are some of the most common reasons why dental fillings may be recommended to you by your dentist:
- Small Holes In The Tooth
Not every hole is a cavity, but even small holes in the tooth can benefit from having a dental filling, even if they’re not yet causing any sort of pain or discomfort. These types of holes will usually develop into a cavity if left, and they’re often impossible to identify yourself. That’s why attending routine appointments every six months with your dentist is critical, as they will be able to identify these issues during your examination.
- Cavities That Are Causing Pain
A cavity that is causing pain or sensitivity may encourage a trip to the dentist sooner than planned, but the truth is that cavities of all sizes may benefit from a dental filling, and your dentist will be able to determine whether a cavity is okay to be left or requires drilling and filling.
- Tooth Fractures
Teeth are strong, but they can still become fractured as a result of high impact. Things such as physical contact sports, or even accidents such as slips and falls can lead to a tooth becoming fractured, but it might be something as everyday as biting down on something hard or crunchy. Whatever has caused your dental fracture, your dentist may be able to fix it with a dental filling, and will usually opt for a tooth coloured filling so that restorations can be made without anyone knowing you’ve had work done.
- Discoloured Teeth
If you’ve got discolouration on your teeth, this can have a pretty big impact on your confidence. Whether it’s as a result of eating or drinking things that stain, like coffee or wine, or discolouration caused by teeth grinding, a filling may the solution.
- Restoration Of Tooth Structure
A damaged tooth can lose its structure over time, and if this becomes too severe, a dental filling may be used to help restore some of the lost structure. In these cases, a dental filling can also help to improve the overall appearance of the teeth.
How To Know If You Need A Dental Filling?
Dental fillings can help with so many different issues, so how do you know if you need this type of treatment? There are a few giveaways that could mean a dental filling is right for you, including:
- Toothache
- Sensitivity To Hot Or Cold Temperatures
- Pain When Biting And Chewing
- A Visible Hole In The Tooth
- A Hole You Can Feel With Your Tongue
- A Fractured Tooth
If you’re experiencing any of the above issues, then you may need a dental filling in London. To be sure, it’s important that you seek the advice of a dentist who can examine your teeth and recommend the best course of action.