How to Tell If You Need a Dental Filling?

May 19, 2021

Did you know that tooth decay is one of the most prevalent health problems in the world? In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 90% of adults over the age of 20 have had at least one cavity in their lives. As common as cavities are, it can be difficult to discern whether you need dental fillings in Conyers to treat them. Keep an eye out for these signs that you need a filling.

 

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental technology has come a long way in the past few decades – no longer do you have to get a noticeable piece of metal placed in your tooth to fill a cavity. Tooth-colored fillings are instead made of composite resin. This putty-like material is designed to seamlessly blend in with the rest of your smile. Plus, compared to metal fillings, less of your tooth structure has to be removed to make room for a tooth-colored filling. This leaves your tooth healthier in the long run.

Signs That You Need a Dental Filling

Sometimes, cavities don’t display symptoms in the early stages. However, contact your dentist in Conyers right away if you notice any of the following:

Toothache

One of the most common signs that you need a filling is pain in a specific tooth. This often indicates that decay has penetrated the tooth’s enamel and reached the sensitive layers underneath it. Whether it’s a constant throbbing toothache or a sharp pain when biting down, you should call your dentist.

Sensitivity

You may have naturally sensitive teeth for one reason or another. However, if the sensitivity worsens, it could mean that the inner layers of the tooth are exposed due to decay.

Hole or Dark Spot in the Tooth

If you can feel a hole in your tooth with your tongue or even see it in the mirror, then you should definitely visit your dentist.

Broken or Lost Old Fillings

Modern fillings are quite durable, but they don’t last forever. You might have noticed if yours loosened or fell out, but your tooth may also just feel inexplicably different.

Don’t Delay the Treatment Your Smile Needs!

Getting a dental filling isn’t exactly anyone’s favorite activity, but putting it off can result in your tooth becoming even more decayed. You might end up needing even more invasive (and expensive) treatment later on, such as a dental crown or a root canal. Just to be on the safe side, talk to your dentist if you notice any of the symptoms described above. That way, your smile will remain bright and healthy!

About the Author

Dr. Anushka Amin is a dentist in Conyers, GA who obtained her dental doctorate from the Medical College of Georgia. She maintains active memberships in the American Dental Association, the Georgia Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the Hinman Dental Society, and the Spear Education Study Club. If you suspect you need dental fillings in Conyers, visit Dr. Amin’s website or call her dental office at (678) 607-8757.

What to Do If Your Dental Crown Falls Off

May 3, 2021

If your tooth was knocked out, that’s obviously a much more time-sensitive situation than if your dental crown had fallen out. However, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t still call your dentist. After all, dental crowns in Conyers are designed to protect your teeth, so your oral health could be in jeopardy if one falls off. While you wait for your appointment, here’s what you need to know about handling a lost dental crown at home.

 

Is a Lost Dental Crown a True Emergency?

Theoretically, yes, but the urgency of your situation can vary. To find out whether you should hop in the car immediately or wait at home for a couple of days, take a closer look at the crown as well as the underlying tooth.

If parts of the crown are still attached, the tooth has sharp edges that could damage your soft tissues, or you’re experiencing severe pain, tell your dental team over the phone. They’ll get you an appointment as soon as possible. If, however, the crown came clean off and you’re not in pain, you can probably wait a couple of days to see your dentist. In the meantime, you can use a dab of toothpaste, denture adhesive, or petroleum jelly to temporarily reattach the crown to your tooth.

Avoid Chewing on That Side of Your Mouth

If your crown has fallen off, the tooth underneath it is now exposed and more vulnerable. Even if you can place the crown back onto the tooth, you should try your best to NOT chew with that area of your mouth. This will not only prevent excess pressure against the tooth, but it will also minimize the risk of food particles sticking to the tooth and causing cavities.

You should also stay away from foods that are particularly sticky or chewy, as they could make your crown come off again. The tooth might be sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks (coffee, ice cream, etc.) so you may want to avoid those as well.

Be Careful with Your Oral Hygiene

Just because your crown fell off doesn’t mean you shouldn’t continue brushing and flossing. Instead, just be gentle when cleaning your mouth. Again, the tooth will likely be a bit more sensitive than usual.

When dealing with a lost dental crown, the most important thing to remember is to call your dentist in Conyers and give them as many details about the situation as possible. They’ll take it from there, but until then, keep the above tips in mind.

About the Author

Dr. Anushka Amin earned her doctorate in dentistry from the Medical College of Georgia. She currently stays an active member of the American Dental Association, the Georgia Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the Hinman Dental Society, and the Spear Education Study Club. If you need help with a lost dental crown, visit her website or call (678) 607-8757.