If we find a cavity during your dental exam, the most likely recommended procedure to correct the problem will be a filling. Gentle Smiles of Colorado is an awesome practice that provides various dental services, including fillings. We take pride in providing you with exceptional dental service. Our goal is to have you leave with a smile. Gentle Smiles of Colorado has Denver, Golden, and Wheat Ridge locations. We offer fillings made of tooth-colored composites that are metal-free. Containing plastic (acrylic) resin reinforced with a powdered glass filler, they are non-toxic and resist temperature changes. Composites are becoming popular because they look natural and can maintain most of your tooth's shape. Unlike the procedure for traditional metal fillings, where a portion of the healthy tooth is lost, composites are bonded on top of the tooth. This helps to preserve it and keep it as strong as possible. Eventually, though, the filling your Denver cosmetic dentist installs could require replacement. Some common signs of problems with your dental fillings in Denver are listed below.
Damaged or No Longer There
The most obvious sign that you need a new filling is that you see a void where the filling once was. Sometimes, you will find the entire filling or pieces of it in your mouth. The next sign would be damage or a crack. Small cracks or minor damage may not be easily noticeable, especially on an upper or back tooth. Contact your Denver cosmetic dentist immediately if you notice any of these problems.
Color Has Changed
When you have a filling that matches your tooth color, the color change will be easily noticeable. It could have a yellow tint or appear slightly darker. Contact your Denver cosmetic dentist immediately if you notice these signs.
Pain in the Tooth
Tooth pain or sensitivity is another sign that your dental fillings in Denver may require replacement. If the pain is caused by the filling, it typically only affects that tooth. If your tooth is sensitive to sweets, hot, or cold it could mean that your filling has failed.
Breath or Taste Changes
A failed filling may lead to bad breath or strange tastes in your mouth. These problems will not go away with brushing, flossing, or mouthwash. It is usually a sign of underlying tooth decay. In most cases, you will not be able to see the decay if it is hidden behind a filling. Your Denver cosmetic dentist would have to do an exam to find the source of the problem.
A filling is installed to protect your tooth from further decay. It needs to be in good condition to do its job. Our dentist at Gentle Smiles of Colorado will discuss how to care for teeth with fillings. Unfortunately, even the most carefully placed fillings will eventually fail and require replacement. Some common things to look out for are a missing or damaged filling, pain, discoloration, or bad breath.
If you experience any signs of a failed filling, contact Gentle Smiles of Colorado immediately. For your convenience, we have offices in Denver, Golden, and Wheat Ridge.