Signs You May Need a Filling
Posted on Jul 19, 2016 4:05pm PDT
If you suspect you need a tooth filling, then you need to see your dentist
near Lake Stevens, WA soon. Whether you have a cavity, or you have lost
an existing filling, the
dentist needs to clean the area and put the filling in to guard against contamination. Here are some common
signs that you might need a filling.

Toothache or Sharp Pain
One of the clearest ways to tell you need a filling is when you experience
pain in your tooth. Unless you have recently damaged the tooth, it is
likely that you have developed a cavity near the location of the toothache.
This may be a constant toothache that throbs and aches no matter what
you do. It may also be a sharp pain that you feel when chewing or drinking
something hot or cold. If this pain continues and becomes more frequent,
then you should see your dentist soon.
Sensitivity
Sometimes, people have naturally sensitive teeth. This comes from overactive
tooth and gum nerves; or it can stem from receding gums that are slowly
exposing the nerves. If tooth sensitivity is a new sensation, it could
be indicative of worn enamel and developing cavities that need fillings—especially
if sensitivity is isolated to just one area.
Dark Spot or Hole in Tooth
If you can actually spot what might be a cavity, then you should definitely
see your dentist for a filling. A noticeable cavity will probably look
like a dark spot or hole on your tooth. If the cavity has become very
large, you may even be able to feel the hole with your tongue or finger.
See your dentist right away before that filling turns into a root canal
and crown procedure.
Broken or Lost Filling
Though you may not be able to tell, sometimes you can lose or break a filling.
You may be able to feel or see where a filling has popped out, or you
can simply feel that something is different with the tooth. Make an appointment
to see your dentist, so he can replace the filling before bacteria invades
the drilled cavity.