Dental fillings are used to repair cavities in the teeth that are caused by dental decay. If left untreated, tooth decay can be a serious issue, causing a lot of pain and discomfort and leading to further dental hygiene and general health problems.
Dental decay occurs as a result of sugary and acidic foods reacting with the bacteria in plaque, softening and dissolving the enamel and dentine of teeth over time. Whilst the acid in food is neutralised through natural salts in our saliva, it can still attack our teeth for as long as an hour after eating or drinking. For this reason, maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is very important, including visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups.
If you are concerned that you may need a dental filling, there are 3 important signs to be aware of.
1. Pain and discomfort
If you experience consistent pain, toothache or sensitivity in your teeth, this is a likely sign that you are suffering from a dental problem. You may find that pain and sensitivity is centred around a certain tooth, in which case, you should arrange to see your dentist as you may require a filling if dental decay has left you with a cavity. In more severe cases where the root of the tooth has become infected, you may require a root canal treatment.
If you experience a persistent toothache over a period of time, this could be a sign of tooth decay or another issue, so you should seek a dental appointment as soon as possible in order to properly diagnose the source of the ache or pain.
2. A hole in your tooth
Signs of a hole in a tooth are that the area around it feels rough on your tongue, and in some cases, a dark spot may also be visible. If you experience either of these signs, there is a good chance that tooth decay has developed into a hole that should be addressed by a dental professional.
If you have previously had a dental filling fitted, and it feels loose or has fallen out completely, a cavity will need to be treated again to prevent potential issues and pain.
3. Bad breath
If you notice bad breath developing, this is another telltale sign that you may be suffering from tooth decay and require a dental filling. The deeper a dental cavity gets, the more food and debris can become trapped. Over time, unpleasant odours can develop and you may experience an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
Dental Fillings in Vauxhall
If you feel that you may need a dental filling, or have questions about tooth decay, please contact us at Riverside Dental Spa by calling 020 7091 0677, or request a consultation here.
