My Dentist Says I Need a Filling, but My Teeth aren't Hurting?

If your dentist says you need a filling, but your teeth aren't hurting, you may be wondering why. Cavities can develop without causing any pain, so it's important to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, even if you're not experiencing any discomfort.

How do cavities develop?

Cavities are caused by bacteria that form plaque on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that contains acids and bacteria. These acids can erode your tooth enamel, leading to cavities.

Cavities can develop anywhere on your teeth, but they are most common on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth and between your teeth.

Why don't all cavities hurt?

There are a few reasons why not all cavities hurt. One reason is that the size and location of the cavity can affect whether or not you experience pain. Smaller cavities, especially those located between the teeth, may not cause any pain at all.

Another reason is that your teeth have nerves that can become desensitized to pain over time. This can happen if you have had a lot of cavities in the past or if you have gum disease.

Finally, your overall health can also affect whether or not you experience pain from a cavity. If you have a weakened immune system or other health conditions, such as diabetes, you may be more likely to experience pain from a cavity.

Why is it important to get a filling for a cavity, even if it doesn't hurt?

Even if a cavity isn't hurting, it's important to get it filled as soon as possible. Cavities can grow larger over time, and if they are not treated, they can eventually cause severe pain and tooth loss.

In addition, cavities can trap food and bacteria, which can lead to infection. An infection can spread to the root of the tooth, causing an abscess. An abscess can be very painful and may require a root canal or tooth extraction to treat. Call our office today located in Manteca Ca to schedule an appointment. (209) 825-6000

What happens during a filling procedure?

A filling procedure is a relatively simple procedure. Your dentist will numb the area around the tooth and then remove the decayed portion of the tooth. They will then fill the cavity with a material, such as amalgam (silver), composite resin (white), or gold.

The type of filling material that your dentist recommends will depend on the size and location of the cavity, as well as your personal preferences.

Aftercare

After getting a filling, you may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. This is usually temporary and should go away within a few days.

You should also avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the filling was placed for at least 24 hours. This will give the filling time to set properly.

Prevention

The best way to prevent cavities is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing your teeth once a day, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

You should also eat a healthy diet and avoid sugary drinks. Sugary drinks can feed the bacteria in plaque, which can lead to cavities.

If you have any questions or concerns about cavities or fillings, please talk to your dentist. Call our office today located in Manteca Ca, and schedule an appointment. (209) 825-6000.