That moment of realization—a sudden odd texture in your mouth or a new sensitivity to temperature—can be unsettling. A damaged dental filling is a common issue, but one that requires prompt attention. At Perry S. Kest DDS, LLC, we want our patients in Southbury, Newtown, and Woodbury to feel informed and prepared. Here’s what you need to know about dental fillings and what to do if one becomes compromised.
What Do Dental Fillings Do?
Dental fillings are a cornerstone of restorative dentistry. Their primary job is to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay. When a cavity forms, your dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth, cleans the area, and then “fills” the space with a durable material.
This process serves several important functions:
- Restores Tooth Function: A filling allows you to chew and speak normally without pain or further damage.
- Prevents Further Decay: By sealing the cavity, a filling blocks bacteria from entering and causing more extensive decay or infection.
- Maintains Tooth Structure: It reinforces the tooth, preventing cracks or breaks that could occur if the cavity were left untreated.
How to Know if You’ve Damaged a Filling
Fillings are strong, but they don’t last forever. They can wear down, chip, or fall out completely. Recognizing the signs of a damaged filling early can save you from pain and more complex dental work down the road.
Look out for these common symptoms:
- Sudden Tooth Pain: A new or sharp pain when biting down can indicate a cracked or loose filling.
- Increased Sensitivity: If the tooth suddenly becomes sensitive to hot, cold, or sugary foods, the protective seal of the filling may be broken.
- Feeling a Hole or Roughness: Running your tongue over your tooth and noticing a new sharp edge or an empty space is a clear sign the filling is damaged or missing.
- Visible Cracks or Gaps: Sometimes, you can see that the filling has pulled away from the tooth or has a crack running through it.
If you experience any of these signs, it’s important to call your dentist right away. Delaying treatment can lead to more severe decay or even an infection requiring a root canal.
What to Expect During a Filling Procedure
If you need a new filling or a replacement, the process is straightforward and comfortable. At our Southbury, CT office, Dr. Perry Kest and Dr. Elena Tomasi prioritize patient comfort.
First, the area around the tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic. Once you are comfortable, the dentist will remove any decay or old filling material and clean the tooth thoroughly. The new filling material is then carefully placed, shaped, and polished to restore your tooth’s original form and function. You’ll leave our office ready to smile with confidence.
If you suspect you have a damaged filling or are due for a check-up, don’t hesitate to contact Perry S. Kest DDS, LLC. We are committed to providing exceptional dental care to the Southbury, Newtown, and Woodbury communities.
Perry S. Kest DDS, LLC