Dental fillings help fix cavities and protect your teeth. Most fillings work well for many years. Still, problems can sometimes happen. Knowing the signs early can help you avoid pain and bigger dental issues later.
If you visit a dentist in North Edmonton, they can check your fillings and fix problems before they get worse.
This blog explains common filling problems, what causes them, and how dentists repair them in simple terms.
Why Do Dental Fillings Sometimes Cause Problems?
Fillings are strong, but they are not perfect. Over time, daily habits can wear them down. Chewing hard foods, grinding teeth, or poor oral care can all cause trouble.
Fillings can also react to hot or cold foods. Sometimes, the tooth under the filling changes. When this happens, discomfort or damage may occur. Regular visits to a dentist near you help catch these problems early.
Tooth Sensitivity After a Filling
Many people feel sensitivity after a filling. This can happen when eating cold, hot, or sweet foods. The nerve inside the tooth may need time to settle.
Tooth sensitivity after receiving a dental filling is normal for a few days. However, if it lasts for weeks or feels sharp, the filling may be too high or placed close to the nerve.
Dentists may:
- Adjust the filling height
- Apply a calming treatment
- Replace the filling if needed
Loose or Broken Fillings
Fillings can loosen or break over time. This often happens from biting hard foods or grinding teeth at night. A loose filling lets bacteria enter the tooth.
People who have dental fillings in North Edmonton sometimes notice pain when chewing or feel a rough edge on the tooth.
Dentists fix this by:
- Removing the damaged filling
- Cleaning the tooth
- Placing a new filling
Pain When Biting Down
Pain while chewing can mean the filling is uneven. Even a small height difference can cause discomfort.
If you recently received dental fillings near you and feel pain while biting, the filling may need adjustment. Dentists can smooth it quickly and comfortably.
Ignoring this pain can lead to jaw soreness or cracked teeth.
Dark Edges or Stains Around Fillings
Dark spots near a filling may look harmless, but they can mean decay is forming underneath. This happens when bacteria get trapped around old or worn fillings.
Dentists check these areas during exams and X-rays. If decay is found, they remove the old filling and clean the tooth before placing a new one.
Fillings That Fall Out Completely
Fillings can fall out if they become weaker or if the tooth decay grows under it – this can leave your tooth open and sensitive.
If this happens, avoid chewing on that side and contact your dentist quickly. Prompt care prevents infection and further damage.
How Dentists Repair Filling Problems
Dentists use simple steps to fix most filling issues. These treatments are usually quick and comfortable.
Common solutions include:
- Smoothing uneven fillings
- Replacing worn or broken fillings
- Treating decay under fillings
- Protecting sensitive teeth
Each fix depends on the condition of the tooth and filling.
How to Prevent Filling Problems in the Future
If you know the right ways to prevent dental filling problems, it will help save you time and discomfort. A few helpful tips include:
- Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing every day
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods
- Wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Visiting your dentist regularly
Good care helps fillings last longer and keeps teeth healthy.
When Should You See a Dentist?
If you have pain in your tooth or if you are a victim of tooth sensitivity, these are the signs that you should visit a dentist.
Visiting a dentist early can:
- Prevent infections
- Save your tooth
- Reduce treatment costs
With the help of routine dental checkups, you can keep your fillings strong and your smile healthy.
Tips to Make Fillings Last Longer
Here are simple ways to protect your fillings every day:
- Drink water after meals
- Avoid chewing ice
- Do not use teeth to open packages
- Use a soft toothbrush
- Follow your dentist’s advice
Small steps can add years to the life of your fillings.
Trusted Care at Beverly Heights Dental
Dental filling problems are common, but they are easy to fix when caught early. If you notice sensitivity, pain, or damage, professional care makes all the difference.
At Beverly Heights Dental, the team focuses on gentle care and long-lasting solutions. They take time to explain treatments and help patients feel comfortable at every visit.
If you are concerned about a filling or want to protect your smile, their experienced dental team is ready to help.
FAQs
Can dental fillings wear out over time?
Yes, dental fillings can wear down slowly. Chewing, grinding teeth, and age can all cause this. Regular dental checkups help spot wear early.
Is it normal to feel pressure after getting a filling?
Some pressure is normal for a short time. If the feeling does not go away or turns into pain, the filling may need a small adjustment.
Can a bad filling cause headaches or jaw pain?
Yes, an uneven filling can affect how your teeth come together. This may lead to jaw soreness or headaches if not corrected.
How long do most dental fillings last?
Many fillings last between 5 and 15 years. Good brushing, flossing, and dental visits can help them last even longer.
