Getting dental fillings is one of the most common treatments in a dental clinic. They help restore teeth that have cavities or small damage. It is essential to recognize the signs early to prevent more severe problems with your tooth. When searching for dental fillings near you, it is essential to recognize the symptoms to look out for and understand when you need a dental filling. Visiting a dentist in Colwood can help you get a professional checkup and the right treatment for your teeth.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dentists employ dental fillings to fix holes in your teeth. When bacteria in your mouth make holes in your teeth, we call these holes cavities. The dentist will remove the rotting area of the tooth and fill the cavity with a special material. This prevents the cavity from expanding and helps restore the normal functioning of your tooth.
5 Signs You Might Need a Dental Filling Right Now
Sign #1: You Feel Tooth Sensitivity
Do your teeth hurt when you drink something cold or hot? This is called tooth sensitivity. When a cavity starts forming, it causes holes in the outermost layer of a tooth, known as enamel. This allows hot and cold substances to reach the soft nerve inside your tooth. If you find yourself in this situation, look for dental fillings near you and schedule an appointment.
Sign #2: You See Dark Spots or Holes on Your Teeth
Look at your teeth in the mirror. Do you see any brown, black, or dark grey spots? The first visible signs of cavities are often discoloured marks on the teeth. At times, you may notice small holes that you see or feel, and these are clear symptoms that indicate you need dental fillings in Colwood. The sooner you get treatment, the smaller the filling will be
Sign #3: You Have a Toothache That Won’t Go Away
If your tooth hurts, it likely means something is wrong. If the cavity becomes larger, it can extend down to the nerve of the tooth, leading to discomfort that may begin gradually but worsen over time. Some people feel pain when they bite down on food. Others have constant throbbing pain. Do not ignore these symptoms—visit a dentist near you right away.
Sign #4: You Notice Food Getting Stuck in the Same Spot
Do you always get food stuck between the same teeth? Or does food keep getting trapped in one particular tooth? The teeth develop a rough edge or a hole due to decay. These spaces become perfect hiding spots for food. If you consistently use a toothpick or floss in the same area, it’s a warning sign.
Sign #5: You Have Bad Breath That Won’t Go Away
Everyone experiences bad breath occasionally, like in the morning. Bad Breath is called halitosis in dental terms. If you brush regularly and still experience bad breath, it may be due to cavities. Bacteria that cause tooth decay also produce unpleasant odors. When food gets stuck in cavities, it exacerbates the problem.
How to Know if You Need a Dental Filling
Here is a simple table summarizing the symptoms and what they indicate
| Symptom | Possible Indication | Action Needed |
| Tooth sensitivity | Early decay | Visit the dentist for a filling. |
| Visible dark spots or holes | Cavity present | Schedule a dental filling |
| Pain while chewing | Tooth decay or fracture | Dental clinic consultation |
| Chipped or cracked teeth | Tooth damage | Get a dental filling repaired. |
| Food trapped / bad breath | Cavity forming | Dental evaluation |
By regularly checking for these symptoms, you can prevent small problems from escalating into larger ones.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long?
Some people believe that small cavities will heal on their own. Unfortunately, that’s not how teeth work. Cavities only get bigger over time. If you let a small cavity go untreated for too long, it could end up requiring a root canal or a crown. In serious cases, you might even lose the tooth completely.
Finding Help at a Dental Clinic Near You
If you recognize any of these five signs, don’t wait. Look for a dental clinic near you and make an appointment with Urban Smiles Colwood. If you’re in pain, we can usually see you quickly. While examining your teeth and taking X-rays, our dentists will assess the extent of your cavity. Getting fillings done at the dentist’s clinic takes less than one hour.
Taking care of cavities early at Urban Smiles Colwood can save you time, money, and discomfort. We can help you care for your teeth so they last a lifetime!
Don’t wait for the pain to get too bad. Schedule your appointment at Urban Smiles Colwood today to protect your smile!
Find trusted dental fillings treatment—Get Directions to Urban Smiles Colwood and protect your smile today.
FAQ
How long do dental fillings last?
Your dental fillings can last five to fifteen years. Each one will last a different amount of time, depending on your oral habits and the type of filling that is used.
Are dental fillings painful?
Most dental fillings in Colwood are not painful. To numb the tooth, the dentist uses local anesthesia during the procedure.
What types of fillings are available?
Some fillings include composite (tooth-coloured), amalgam (silver), and ceramic.
How soon can I eat after getting a dental filling?
After the anesthesia wears off, you can usually eat. However, if the filling is new, avoid hard or sticky foods for at least 24 hours.