Receiving a filling is a simple yet essential procedure. If your dentist diagnoses tooth decay and recommends a tooth filling in Markham, you need to schedule an appointment as soon as possible for several reasons.
Reduce Sensitivity and Pain
Teeth with cavities are more sensitive to temperature. If you delay receiving a filling, you may feel uncomfortable when you eat hot or cold foods.
If the cavity exposes the dentin (the inner part of the tooth), you may even suffer from constant pain or discomfort.
Prevent the Spread of Decay
Without a dental cavity filling Markham, the decay will remain, working its way deeper into the tooth. By receiving a filling as soon as your dentist discovers the decay, the cavity is only able to create a small, easy-to-fill hole.
Restore the Strength of Your Tooth
If you allow the cavity to grow, it will transform the small hole into a crater. As the decay spreads, your tooth will become thinner and weaker, which may lead to cracks or chips in your tooth.
In some cases, damage can be even more extensive, impacting nerves, tissues, and even nearby teeth.
Avoid Infection
Leave tooth decay yet longer and it will develop into an infection. The decay will continue all the way through the tooth into the pulp.
This causes anything from discomfort to severe pain. To remove the infected tissue, you will need root canal therapy and maybe even a crown instead of a filling.
This treatment is more expensive than receiving a filling and requires more than one visit to the dentist. Worse still, there is no guarantee that the procedure will save your tooth.
FAQs About Dental Fillings
What is the main purpose of a dental filling?
A dental filling restores a tooth that has been damaged by decay or minor fractures. It helps stop the progression of cavities and brings back the tooth’s normal shape and function.
What happens if a cavity is left untreated without a filling?
Without a filling, decay can spread deeper into the tooth, leading to pain, infection, or the need for more complex treatments like root canal therapy or tooth extraction.
Are dental fillings safe and long-lasting?
Yes. Modern dental fillings are made from safe, durable materials. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, fillings can last many years.
Do dental fillings hurt?
The procedure is usually painless because the area is numbed with local anesthesia. Most patients feel little to no discomfort during or after the treatment.
How do I know if I need a dental filling?
Common signs include tooth sensitivity, pain when biting, visible holes or dark spots on teeth, or discomfort when eating sweet or cold foods. A dentist can confirm this during an exam.
