We often recommend a dental filling to address a cavity, preventing the problem from progressing. However, what are the indicators of decay? When do you need a filling? Understanding the warning signs of decay, as well as when to consider receiving a restoration, can help protect your smile from serious oral health concerns, ranging from serious decay to an infection or abscess.
Try Our Dental Filling Quiz
- True or False: All fillings are made from metal.
- True or False: Without treatment a cavity can become an infection.
- True or False: These restorations only take one visit for placement.
- True or False: A toothache can be an indicator of decay.
Answer Key
- False. At one point, yes, amalgam fillings were the only option for addressing a cavity. However, we now offer a tooth-colored alternative. Using composite resin, we can place metal-free options that look natural and better blend with your smile. In addition, these are safe for young children, pregnant women, and people with metal allergies.
- True. A cavity will continue to spread and grow in size until bacteria can come into contact with the inner pulp, the nerve center of your tooth. At this point, an infection or possibly an abscess can form, causing serious discomfort and increasing the risk of losing the tooth. Fortunately, we can perform a root canal procedure to address infection.
- True. The process begins with preparation. The doctor will thoroughly clean the tooth and remove the presence of decay. The composite resin will then be applied. Using a special light, the doctor will begin the curing process while sculpting the tooth. Afterward, the tooth is polished to ensure the filling has a more lifelike appearance.
- True. Common warning signs of decay include toothaches or tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods/drinks. However, by having your teeth examined once every six months you increase the likelihood of decay being discovered in earlier stages.
ABOUT YOUR ASTORIA, NY, DENTIST:
Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, a native New Yorker, has welcomed patients and families from in and around Astoria, NY(including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since opening his dental practice in 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
