How To Tell If You Need a Dental Filling

Do you have a cavity? To restore the tooth, you'll likely need a dental filling. We can use different types of filling to get the job done. Today, our Port Moody dentists explain why a tooth filling would be needed and describe different types of fillings to consider.

What are dental fillings?

To restore the structure, function and appearance of a tooth that's been decayed or damaged, this restoration can be used to help alleviate tooth pain you may be experiencing.

Why are dental fillings used?

Tooth fillings can repair tooth decay, fractures or cracks. They help return functionality to your tooth and in some cases, dental fillings can be used to make cosmetic improvements to your smile.

What are some signs I may need a dental filling?

While you should see a dentist to confirm whether you need a filling, here are some signs that you may have a cavity that needs a tooth filling. If you experience any of these, schedule an appointment with your dentist:

When you examine your teeth, you see a hole or dark spot.
Your feel a sharp or throbbing pain in your tooth.
Your tooth is broken or chipped.
Food keeps getting stuck between certain teeth.
Your tooth feels rough to the touch.
An existing tooth filling has broken or cracked.
You've lost a tooth filling and need a replacement.

What are dental fillings made of?

Dental fillings can be constructed from a variety of materials. At Westport Dental, we use composite (tooth-coloured) fillings, which are able to withstand moderate pressure from the continual stress of chewing. They can be used on both front or back teeth.

Composite Fillings for a Natural Look & Feel

Since they are very similar in colour to natural teeth, composite fillings typically blend in well with the surrounding teeth.

They look and feel natural, and are commonly chosen by patients who are concerned with how amalgam (grey) fillings may appear on teeth that are visible when they smile.

For dentists, composites are easy to sculpt and shape onto a tooth. They also bond naturally to a tooth, meaning your dentist won't need to remove as much existing enamel when preparing the tooth.

Your dentist will remove tooth decay and add bonding material to the inside of the hole so the filling can be placed. Composite resin is then layered in the hole.

A curing light is used to harden each layer. When the last layer of resin has hardened, the filling will be carefully shaped to match your natural teeth.