Dental Fillings

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WHAT IS A FILLING?
 

If tooth decay is not repaired at its early stages, it will worsen and additional or alternative dental treatments may be necessary. A filling is a more cost-effective treatment with a number of benefits, including:

· Repairs and restores the surface of a tooth that has been damaged by decay, fracture or wear

· Strengthens the tooth

· Extends the life of the tooth

WHY DO I NEED A FILLING?
 

Dr Rastegar will often recommend a filling in two situations. They are:

· The surface enamel of a tooth is damaged due to decay, fracture, or wear.

· A tooth’s surface needs to be evened out to improve your ability to bite or chew.

WARNING SIGNS A FILLING MAY BE NECESSARY
 

There are a number of warning signs that may indicate a filling will be necessary, including:

· Tooth sensitivity to extreme hot or extreme cold temperatures can be an early warning sign of tooth decay

· Pain when biting into food, bearing down or clenching the teeth

· An earache, which can sometimes be referred pain from a toothache

· Persistent headaches with no other cause

While there could be a number of reasons for this sensation, only your Dentist can diagnose its underlying cause. If a damaged tooth surface is not treated early, your discomfort will increase.
 

With proper care and dental hygiene, a filling has a lifespan of 5-12 years, depending upon the type of filling material used.