A healthy smile is more than just aesthetics; it’s a key part of your well-being. Dental fillings are vital in maintaining oral health by repairing teeth harmed by decay, trauma, or wear. At Madison Ave Dental in Greenwood, Dr. Kurush Savabi and his compassionate team are committed to restoring damaged teeth with high-quality, long-lasting dental fillings in Greenwood. 

But how can you tell if you might need a dental filling? Spotting early signs of tooth decay can save you discomfort, protect your teeth, and prevent more extensive (and expensive) treatments.

Below are the top warning signs to watch out for and expert advice on when to seek professional care.

1. Tooth Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

Have you noticed a sudden twinge when sipping hot coffee or enjoying a cold treat? Tooth sensitivity is often one of the earliest indicators that your tooth enamel might be wearing thin or that a cavity is starting to form.

This happens when acids or decay erode your tooth’s outer layer, exposing the sensitive dentin. If left untreated, the sensitivity could worsen, indicating the cavity is getting deeper.

Expert tip: If you experience sharp, lingering, or increasing sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, you should visit your dentist for an evaluation. Early intervention with dental fillings in Greenwood can halt further damage and protect your healthy tooth structure.

2. Persistent Toothache or Throbbing Pain

Tooth pain is your body’s way of signaling that the inner layers of your tooth may be under attack. A persistent toothache that throbs or seems to worsen when you bite down often points to tooth decay that has reached sensitive nerves inside the tooth.

While pain may come and go at first, it almost never improves without treatment. Delaying a dental visit can mean the difference between a simple filling and a more complex root canal procedure.

What to do: Don’t ignore ongoing tooth pain. Seek care with Dr. Kurush Savabi at Madison Ave Dental for a thorough assessment and prompt, gentle treatment to preserve your tooth.

3. Visible Holes or Dark Spots on Teeth

When you look in the mirror, cavities can sometimes be seen as dark spots, tiny pits, or even small holes in your teeth. While these changes may start subtle, they can grow larger over time and become more noticeable.

Why this matters: Once a hole or pit forms, bacteria and food debris can get trapped inside, accelerating tooth decay. If you spot any visible changes, it’s crucial to be proactive.

Scheduling an exam at a trusted provider of dental fillings in Greenwood ensures the decay is treated before it causes further complications.

4. Rough or Chipped Teeth

Teeth that feel rough to the tongue or have small chips and cracks aren’t just a cosmetic issue. These irregularities can trap bacteria and provide easy entry points for decay, especially if they occur near old fillings or at the edges of your teeth.

Tiny fractures can result from teeth grinding, minor trauma, or wear and tear over time. Left unchecked, they can erode further, making your tooth susceptible to cavities and infection.

Solution: Dental fillings are designed to smooth and rebuild the tooth’s surface, restoring its shape and function. Madison Ave Dental offers tooth-colored, seamless fillings for a natural look and lasting protection.

5. Food Frequently Getting Stuck in Teeth

Do you notice certain spots where food seems to stubbornly wedge, no matter how thoroughly you brush or floss? This can be an early sign of a cavity or a small gap between teeth caused by decay or the breakdown of a previous filling.

Over time, food particles trapped in these pockets can lead to bacterial growth, bad breath, and even gum disease.

Next step: If you consistently have issues with food getting stuck in one area, schedule a dental check-up. A quick X-ray and examination can reveal if a filling is needed to restore the space and prevent further issues.

6. Old or Worn-Out Fillings Needing Replacement

Even the most expertly placed fillings don’t last forever. Over the years, fillings (especially older metal ones) can wear down, crack, or become loose, exposing your tooth to a renewed risk of decay.

Look out for changes in how your bite feels, sensitivity around a filled tooth, or if you can physically feel a rough edge or gap where your filling used to be.

At Madison Ave Dental, Dr. Kurush Savabi replaces worn or damaged fillings with durable, custom-matched, tooth-colored materials. This improves your dental health and keeps your smile looking its best.

Restore Your Smile With Expert Dental Fillings in Greenwood, IN

Recognizing the signs you need a dental filling can save your tooth and avoid complications like infections or the need for root canals. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above—from sensitivity and toothaches to visible holes or worn fillings—it’s time to contact a dental professional.

Madison Ave Dental offers compassionate, advanced care for dental fillings in Greenwood. Dr. Savabi and the team prioritize comfort, quality, and long-term results, treating every patient like family.

Don’t wait for small dental issues to escalate. Protect your oral health by scheduling a check-up at Madison Ave Dental. Contact us today to restore your smile with expert dental fillings!