Signs you need a tooth filling

A tooth filling is a dental restoration that involves removing decay and repairing the affected tooth. If the damage is severe enough, you may need a root canal and a cap but that is a different procedure. Tooth fillings help dentists repair cavities, so they do not become bigger dental problems down the road.  

A toothache may be the most common sign that you need a tooth filling. 

However, sensitivity to certain temperatures or sweet foods are also indicators that you need a tooth filling.

Here are some visible signs that you need a tooth filling. 

Dark spots on your teeth can be a sign of a developing cavity.  These are caused by tooth decay or a cavity and an injury to the affected tooth. 

* A hole you can see or feel in your teeth means you will need several fillings to cover it.

* Food that always get stuck in your teeth. Healthy teeth are unlikely to have food get stuck in between them.  If you experience this problem then you need to see a dentist. 

*When your floss tears in a certain spot.

*A rough, chipped or broken tooth.

*A broken or lost filling,

Fractured teeth. Fractured teeth can also be repaired to slow down or even prevent further damage.

Tooth wear: As we age, our teeth wear down .As the wear occurs ,the flat biting edges darken and make teeth look unsightly. The wearing down can also be caused by teeth grinding.

So, does does your tooth need a filling?

For more information on braces, visit our website at www.ugadent.org  

Dr Matovu Muhammad is  a Dental surgeon at Prime Dental Clinic  and CDE coordinator Uganda Dental Association.