If you have a toothache or sudden sensitivity, you may assume these symptoms will go away in a few days. However, these issues can be more than just a temporary discomfort. While minor tooth pain might resolve on its own, persistent problems, such as visible spots, pain when chewing, and food trapping, could signal decay that requires professional treatment. Recognizing the early warning signs of cavities can help you address problems with dental fillings and prevent future damage.
At Beechnut Dental Care, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge to make informed decisions about their oral health. Our team provides gentle, minimally invasive dental treatments using state-of-the-art technology to restore your smile’s health and function. If you notice signs of a cavity or other tooth damage, it’s time to schedule an appointment to determine if you need a dental filling.
How to Know If You Need a Dental Filling
If you have tooth decay that requires dental treatment, you’re not alone. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, nearly 90% of adults between 20 and 64 years of age have decay in their teeth. Fillings can help treat smaller cavities using a tooth-colored composite resin that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth and protects them from future damage.
Signs you may need a dental filling to treat your tooth decay include the following:
Visible Spots or Damage
While not all cavities are visible to the untrained eye, dark spots, chips, and cracks in the teeth may indicate damage or decay. Dark spots may appear as brown, black, or even white, differing from the natural color of your enamel. If you notice small holes or pits in your teeth, these may be cavities that have progressed beyond the initial stages.
Additionally, transparent or translucent edges on your front teeth might signal enamel erosion, a precursor to cavity formation. Tooth damage, such as chips or cracks, can also create vulnerable areas where bacteria can enter and cause decay.
Pain and Sensitivity
If you experience sharp pain when eating hot or cold foods and beverages, sensitivity to eating sweet, acidic, or sticky foods, or pain when biting or chewing, you may have more advanced decay that requires professional attention. Lingering sensitivity that stays even after you remove the hot, cold, sweet, acidic, or sticky stimulus could be a sign of a potential cavity that needs a filling.
Texture Changes and Food Trapping
Beyond visual and pain indicators, the way your teeth feel can tell you a lot about their health. When running your tongue over your teeth, you might notice rough edges, sharp areas, or holes that weren’t there before. These irregularities can be early signs of decay requiring attention.
Additionally, if food consistently gets trapped in the same spot, or if you frequently need to use floss to remove food from a particular area, this might indicate a cavity has created a space where food can lodge. You may even feel a hole or indentation with your tongue before you can see it.
Some patients report being able to feel a hole or indentation with their tongue before they can even see it. Trust this tactile feedback—your tongue is remarkably sensitive and can often detect changes before they become visible. Many cavities develop in places that are difficult to view on your own, such as between teeth or on the surfaces facing your cheeks, so trust these tactile signs and don’t leave them untreated.
Have Tooth Decay? Get a Filling With the Trusted Professionals at Beechnut Dental Care
If you experience symptoms of tooth decay, don’t ignore them or wait until your next cleaning to address them. Instead, contact our experienced team at Beechnut Dental Care. We specialize in same-day treatments using precise guided dentistry with minimally invasive procedures. Our modern approach to dentistry means more comfort and better results. Whether you have tooth decay, a chipped tooth, or visible cracks, our team is ready to provide the care you need with flexible financial options and payment plans tailored to your needs.
Don’t let minor dental issues develop into major problems. If you’re experiencing any signs of decay or it’s been more than six months since your last dental exam, contact our office today. Call us at 713-839-0900 or fill out our contact form, and we’ll help restore your smile’s health and comfort.
