Recognizing the problem is essential, so you can seek assistance from dental professionals as early as possible. Here are some signs you may need a dental filling:

1. Your Tooth Hurts

   Constant pain in one tooth or several areas can be a sign you need dental fillings. Holes in the tooth can make it difficult to eat and chew.

   In some cases, the pain can strike even when you're not eating. Some people tend to ignore the discomfort, thinking it's only a typical toothache that will resolve on its own.

   However, if the soreness doesn't go away and only worsens, that could be because the cavity has already progressed. As a result, over-the-counter pain medications won't be enough.

   Seeking dental treatments immediately will prevent the need for a complex procedure such as root canal therapy.

2. Your Teeth Feel Sensitive

   If your tooth feels sensitive to heat and cold, that can indicate it needs fillings. Increased tooth sensitivity is a common symptom of cavities.

   When the enamel wears, harmful bacteria and acids can reach the deeper layers of the tooth.

   Dentin, the layer beneath the enamel, is softer and contains tubes connected to the tooth nerves. Changes in temperature reach the dentin, stimulate the nerves, and lead to sensitivity.

3. You Spot Dark Spots or Holes

   Tooth discoloration is one sign of decay. Even if there's no visible hole yet, mentioning it to your dentist helps. That dark spot may later turn into a hole.

   Running your tongue along the surfaces of your teeth can also help you spot developing cavities. Rough surfaces can be due to enamel damage. However, cavities can be tough to spot until they already require a dental filling.

   Regular dental visits increase your chances of reversing early signs of cavities.

4. Your Old Filling Is Falling Out

   Old fillings can fall out if they get damaged. Once they pull away from the tooth, debris and bacteria can get into the area and cause decay.

   Weakened fillings must be fixed immediately to keep them from breaking further. In some cases, they may require replacement.

   Poor oral hygiene is one reason fillings break prematurely. Left ignored, the area may start to feel sore as decay develops.

   Routine dental checkups are valuable for ensuring your dental work remains in good shape.

5. You Notice Unpleasant Breath

   Food particles can get stuck in cavities and attract odor-causing bacteria. Cavities don't directly cause the unpleasant smell, but the buildup of bacteria contributes to it.

   As the holes get deeper, they also become harder to clean. Deposits also penetrate deeper into the hole and accumulate.

   Left untreated, you may further notice an unpleasant taste in your mouth.

Request a Consultation With a Dentist in Kanata, ON, Today

If you feel you need a tooth filling, see your dentist in Kanata, Ontario, right away.

Our Kanata dentists at Centrum Dental Centre apply dental fillings as a routine procedure. We can work with you to produce a natural-looking restoration so you won't have to worry about it affecting the appearance of your smile.

Talk to our dental team today to make an appointment and learn more about dental fillings.