How to Know if You Need Composite Fillings: Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Are you experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, or visible cavities? These are signs that you might need dental fillings to restore your teeth and protect them from further damage. 

Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, are a popular choice for their natural appearance and durability. They not only repair your teeth but also blend seamlessly with your smile.

In this blog, we’ll discuss what composite fillings are, common signs you might need one, and why timely treatment is essential for maintaining a healthy, pain-free smile.

What Are Dental Fillings? 

Damaged teeth are restored using dental fillings for an affected portion of the tooth. Once the damaged area is filled, the filling substance is put into the tooth to occupy that area and prevent further damage. 

The materials that dentists use in aesthetic dental filling procedures include amalgam (silver), composite (colored like natural teeth), gold, and porcelain.

Specifically, the general cost of dental tooth-colored fillings is normally bearable with the help of dental insurance. However, the type of filling material that is used plays a major role too. For example, extraction or restoration of silver amalgam is cheaper than composite or gold restorations.

If you feel like you need a cavity filling, book an appointment with your dentist today

Signs You Need a Dental Filling 

If your teeth feel sensitive to heat, cold, or sweet products, or they display noticeable erasion, pitting, or pain when you are chewing, biting, or dark staining, then it is likely that you need a dental filling. 

Any symptoms you are experiencing should be immediately reported to your dentist to get an assessment and a decision if you should get a filling otherwise you might have to experience severe consequences. 

1. Painful Teeth When Eating/Chewing 

When you happen to have a sensitivity in your teeth every time you are chewing or biting food, it’s time to see the dentist. This could be a signal that you should get dental fillings done.

Cavity, which is also referred to as tooth decay, is treated through dental fillings. 

These fillings can also help restore teeth that are decayed, broken, or damaged by abrasive forces like grinding or acid erosion.

The most prevalent indicators of cavity or tooth decay are:

• Pain in the teeth or periodontal space when an individual is biting or chewing food.
• Food sensitivity, including hot, cold, or any food or beverage containing sugar
• Spaces or gaps that are physically seen in the teeth.

2. Visible Holes in your teeth 

If you have visible holes in the surface of the teeth, there are indications that you need aesthetic fillings. Cavities, also known as caries, are forming as a consequence of tooth decay provoked by the accumulation of bacteria and plaque on your teeth. 

It also erodes your tooth enamel as these substances wear down your teeth and make tiny holes. If left untreated, these cavities progress and can cause the need for extraction of the affected tooth.

Cavities usually occur at the back surface of your molars and premolars, where a toothbrush and a piece of floss cannot reach. If cavities develop on the front teeth, they may present in the form of small brown or white stains. In this case, you should also:

• Avoid sugary foods
• Avoid chewing gums 
• Don’t skip brushing 
• Don’t ignore pain or swelling 

3. Sensitivity to hot and cold

If you notice that a particular tooth becomes sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, this could be a sign your tooth needs a resin composite filling. 

This takes place because the enamel that protects your teeth has worn away, exposing the dentin layer. If the dentin is exposed to hot or cold substances, there will be pain or discomfort. 

If you have this symptom, you should not hesitate to see your dentist before the pain gets unbearable.

4. Teeth Discolouration 

Another clear sign that you need dental fillings is when your teeth start to change color. It is always advisable to check in with your dentist if you see stained teeth turning yellow or brown.

The dental fillings should always come in a color that matches the natural color of your teeth, and this should help prevent further staining of the teeth.

5. Bad Taste in your mouth 

Dental fillings could be needed if you have a bad taste in your mouth. Here are the symptoms you should not ignore whenever you feel pain in your teeth, are sensitive to hot or cold drinks, or have become visibly enlarged. 

For this reason, people should not delay scheduling a dentist appointment in case they encounter these problems. 

When to Contact Your Dentist?

If you continue to feel pain and sensitivity in the area that doesn’t subside in a couple of weeks or if there is any evidence of the filling being cracked or missing altogether, you should go see your dentist as soon as possible. 

These signs may indicate one of two possibilities, that the dental filling may require alteration or be replaced entirely.

Conclusion

Taking care of your oral health starts with recognizing the warning signs. From tooth pain and sensitivity to discoloration and visible cavities, these symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. Composite fillings offer an effective solution to restore your teeth and prevent further issues, all while maintaining a natural appearance.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned, don’t wait! Schedule an appointment with your dentist today. With timely treatment, proper dental care, and regular check-ups, you can enjoy a pain-free, confident smile for years to come. Let’s work together to keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright!