A tooth filling is one of the most common dental procedures. But does your tooth really need a filling in the first place? There are a few key signs that your tooth may be suffering from decay and needs a filling. Before you nod your head and say yes to this procedure, it’s important to understand what a filling is and how it works. A filling is essentially just a small patch that gets placed inside the tooth to treat cavities. This patch is usually made of either composite (tooth color) or amalgam (metal). Dentists use a combination of visual assessment and x-ray to diagnose tooth fillings. During the visual exam, dentists look for signs of cavities or damage to the enamel, such as cracks and discoloration. They also check for plaque buildup, which can indicate that decay has begun underneath the gum line. The x-rays provide confirmation of the location and extent of the decay. Furthermore, dentists use pain symptoms to determine when a tooth filling is necessary. Pain symptoms can include sensitivity when eating sweets, a dull, throbbing ache that worsens over time, and pain while chewing or drinking hot or cold beverages. If all signs point to needing a tooth filling based on these exams and assessments, then your dentist will likely suggest having one placed in order to restore your tooth’s health and alleviate any pain caused by it. But sometimes, you don’t have any symptoms at all. You just get a surprise when the dentist points to an area that needs dental fillings. In a nutshell, there are many factors to consider when it comes to making decisions about tooth fillings. From the type of filling material to the costs associated with different treatment options, it can be challenging to make an informed and balanced decision on this important topic. Dr. Deepak Kamalanathan, one of the leading prosthodontists in Chennai, brings years of experience in advanced dental care to his flourishing practice at Apple Dental. He is well-versed on advanced dental technologies. Services provided by the doctor include Zirconia, DMLS and PFM Crowns, Implant Prosthesis, Full Mouth Oral Rehabilitation, Veneers, BPS Dentures Fixing, Smile Design, Implant Retained Dentures etc. With highly trained dental team and state-of-the-art facilities, he is passionate about bringing high quality dental care to his patients at affordable costs. Want to make an informed decision about your dental treatment? Visit us @Apple Dental for a consultation where our dental experts can provide recommendations based on your medical history and clinical assessment to help you choose the most effective treatment option. Don’t wait any longer to achieve your perfect smile. Let us help you restore your confidence and improve your oral health. From routine check-ups to complex procedures, our team of dental experts at Apple Dental have got you covered.