Why Do I Need a Filling if My Tooth Doesn’t Hurt?

Tooth decay isn’t as threatening as it once was. In the past, most dentists treated cavities with typical amalgam (silver) restorations. Now, dentists can detect and treat with less invasive restorations that are safer for teeth.

Even so, most people have concerns about fillings or tooth decay in general. To help you prepare for your next appointment, we’ve produced a list of the most common things the team at Blue Sky Smiles wants you to know why you shouldn’t put off having an exam or treating that small filling.

Common Symptoms of Tooth Decay

Not everyone, or every tooth, will experience symptoms of pain when they have decay. If you have a toothache, you’ll know it. But other cavity symptoms might not be as obvious, including:

• Sensitivity to sweet foods or drinks
• Rough edges on your tooth
• Visible holes and discoloration
• Something simply feeling “off” whenever you bite down

Not All Cavities are Visible

During your exam, Dr. Robinson may notice visible cavities. On the other hand, X-rays
are necessary for determining the depth of a cavity and screening for decay that’s between the teeth or below chewing surfaces, which cannot be detected with the naked eye.

Teeth Don’t Respond to Infection the Same Way

Cavities aren’t always painful, and every tooth responds differently. If food gets caught in your teeth, there’s irritation when biting/chewing, or you feel rough/sharp edges with your tongue, you might have a cavity and not know it just yet.

We can check for cavities between and inside your teeth where you might not otherwise see them, thanks to frequent checkups and taking occasional X-rays to screen for infection.

Cavities Will Gradually Spread

Cavities are caused by bacteria. Bacteria can travel from one tooth to the next if there is
an active cavity. This results in the formation of a new cavity in a separate tooth. Early
treatment can help avoid the formation of new cavities. If caught early enough, only a
small tooth-colored filling in one tooth will take care of the issue.

Minimally Invasive and More Affordable

At your appointment, Blue Sky Smiles staff will be happy to answer your questions. We’ll set your mind at ease regarding any treatment concerns you may have, as well as talk about which options are ideal for you. Our minimally invasive fillings are designed to fit your budget and preserve the maximum amount of tooth structure possible.

After your exam, you’ll be given a treatment plan that details the procedures and projected costs for restoring your smile. The earlier your tooth decay is fixed, the less money you’ll spend in the long run.

Schedule Your Consultation

Maintain the health of your smile for years to come. Make an appointment for a checkup twice a year. We’ll screen for early symptoms of tooth decay during your exam, giving you the opportunity to prevent cavities with proper home care and fluoride. If you have active decay, we can help you get ahead of it before severe problems arise.

If it’s been six months since your last dentist appointment or you suspect you have a cavity, call Blue Sky Smiles in Saginaw today.