Do white fillings have you feeling white-hot with worry? While white filling is a relatively simple and straightforward procedure, it’s important to see the dentist if you spot any of the following warning signs. Knowing when you need to get white filling can help prevent more serious issues down the road.
When You Need A Dentist
White fillings are a safe and affordable way to repair cavities in your teeth. The white filling helps restore your tooth’s shape, strength, and overall health while blending in naturally with your other teeth. But how do you know when it’s time for white filling? We’ll explore 10 warning signs that may indicate you need white filling so that you can take action before things get worse.
Tooth Pain
Pain is often the first indication that something is wrong and white fillings are no exception. Sharp, persistent pain in your mouth, especially when drinking or eating, might be a sign of cavities that need white filling. If you experience constant discomfort while chewing food, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Lingering Toothache
If you have a lingering toothache that doesn’t seem to go away after brushing or flossing, it could mean there’s a cavity forming and white filling is necessary to repair the damage. Your dentist will likely take x-rays to see if white filling is required for the area before treating it.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold Foods or Drinks
If you experience extreme sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods, white filling may be the solution. This is because white fillings help protect exposed nerve endings and reduce further discomfort. Your dentist will likely recommend white filling as a way to address this issue.
Visible Damage
Sometimes cavities are visible to the naked eye, in which case white filling isn’t necessary to diagnose them. If you notice any discoloration on your teeth, chipped enamel, cracks, or holes that can easily be seen with the naked eye, it’s time to see your dentist for white filling.
Discoloration
If you notice white, yellow, or brown spots on any of your teeth, it could indicate that white filling is necessary. These discolorations are typically caused by cavities and white fillings can help repair them before the damage becomes worse.
Cracks or Chips in Tooth Enamel
Small cracks and chips in tooth enamel can eventually lead to bigger problems if left untreated. White filling not only helps protect the teeth from further damage but also strengthens them so they’re less likely to chip easily in the future.
Holes in Teeth
Holes in your teeth can be a sign of decay that white filling can help repair. If you notice any holes in your teeth, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible so white fillings can be used to restore the damage and improve the overall health of your teeth.
FAQs
Q: What are white fillings?
A: White fillings are a safe and affordable way to repair cavities in your teeth. They help restore your tooth’s shape, strength, and overall health while blending in naturally with your other teeth.
Q: When should I see my dentist for white filling?
A: You should see your dentist if you experience persistent pain, tooth sensitivity when eating or drinking hot or cold foods, visible discoloration on your teeth, cracks or chips in tooth enamel, or holes in any of your teeth.
Q: How long does white filling last?
A: On average white fillings can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, depending on how well they’re cared for and the individual patient.
Conclusion
White fillings are a safe and effective way to repair cavities in your teeth, but it’s important to know when white filling is necessary. By understanding the warning signs of white filling, you can take action before things get worse. Be sure to visit your dentist if you experience persistent pain, tooth sensitivity when eating or drinking hot or cold foods, visible discoloration on your teeth, cracks or chips in tooth enamel, or holes in any of your teeth.
