Your teeth go through a lot every day – from chewing tough foods to dealing with sugar, acid, and bacteria. So, it’s not surprising that damage can happen over time. Luckily, restoration dentistry at Dental Care of Lombard can help. But what are the signs that I might need a dental filling or crown?
If you’ve been asking yourself this question, you’re not alone. Many patients come to our dental office in Lombard, IL, unsure whether they need a simple filling or something more durable, like a crown. If this sounds like you, then it’s time to call Dr. Julie Glud at (630) 629-5700 to schedule an appointment today!
Understanding the signs of tooth trouble is an important step toward protecting your smile. In this blog, we’ll explore the top symptoms to watch for and how restoration dentistry can help.
Constant or Sudden Tooth Pain
Tooth pain is one of the clearest warning signs that something’s wrong. If you’re feeling sharp, dull, or throbbing pain, your tooth might be damaged.
This could be due to decay, cracks, or even an infection. Sometimes, the pain is triggered by eating or drinking, especially something sweet, sour, hot, or cold.
If you’ve been wondering, “What are the signs that I might need a dental filling or crown?” tooth pain is a big clue. A small cavity can often be fixed with a filling. But if the damage is deeper, you may need a crown to protect the entire tooth structure.
Sensitivity to Hot or Cold Temperatures
Are you wincing when you sip coffee or bite into ice cream? Temperature sensitivity can be a sign that your tooth enamel is worn down or your dentin is exposed. This often happens with cavities, cracks, or worn fillings.
While sensitivity can sometimes be managed with toothpaste, it’s best to see your dentist in Lombard, IL, for an exam. Dr. Glud can check to see if you need a filling or a crown to protect the tooth and stop the sensitivity.
So, what are the signs that I might need a dental filling or crown? Tooth sensitivity is high on the list, especially if it doesn’t go away after a few weeks.
A Visible Hole or Dark Spot on Your Tooth
If you notice a hole, pit, or dark spot on your tooth, it may be a cavity. Cavities start small but grow over time. Without treatment, they can lead to pain, infection, or even tooth loss.
Fillings work great for small cavities. But larger areas of decay may need a crown to cover and protect the tooth from further damage.
When thinking about what are the signs that I might need a dental filling or crown, don’t ignore visible changes in your teeth. Even if there’s no pain yet, decay can progress quickly.
A Cracked, Chipped, or Broken Tooth
If your tooth cracks or breaks, it can leave the inner part of the tooth exposed to bacteria and decay.
Sometimes, Dr. Glud can smooth or fill small chips. But larger cracks usually require a crown to keep the tooth stable and strong. Waiting too long can cause more damage or even tooth loss.
So again, what are the signs that I might need a dental filling or crown? Cracks, chips, and fractures are clear signals that you need dental care right away.
A Filling That Has Fallen Out
It’s rare for fillings to last for longer than 20 years. Over time, they can wear out, become loose, or fall out completely. When this happens, your tooth is exposed and at risk for decay or infection.
If a filling falls out, you need to replace it quickly. However, if the tooth has weakened or the cavity has grown, a crown might be the better option.
One more time: What are the signs that I might need a dental filling or crown? A missing or damaged filling is a definite reason to call your dentist in Lombard, IL, as soon as possible.
Gum Inflammation or Bleeding Around One Tooth
Gums that bleed or swell around a specific tooth could mean the tooth is infected or decaying below the surface. This might not be noticeable right away, especially if the pain is mild or comes and goes.
Dr. Glud can take X-rays to check what’s going on inside the tooth. If the damage is minor, a filling might be enough. But deep damage or infection may call for a crown and possibly even a root canal.
What are the signs that I might need a dental filling or crown? Don’t ignore gum changes, especially if they happen around one tooth. It could be a sign of hidden decay.
Recurring Bad Breath or a Bad Taste
Bad breath or a bad taste that won’t go away can sometimes signal decay or infection inside a tooth. This is because bacteria trapped in a cavity or under an old filling can cause odor and even pus.
If brushing and flossing don’t fix the issue, it’s time to visit Dr. Glud. A filling or crown might be required, depending on the severity of the decay.
So yes, if you’re asking what are the signs that I might need a dental filling or crown, don’t forget about this hidden sign – chronic bad breath could mean something’s going on below the surface.
What to Expect During a Dental Exam
Dr. Glud will carefully examine your teeth and may take X-rays to see what’s happening under the surface. She will check for decay, cracks, and worn enamel. From there, Dr. Glud will let you know if you need a filling or a crown.
Our team may recommend fillings for small areas of decay or damage. Alternatively, we may recommend crowns for larger damage or weakened teeth. In both cases, the goal is to restore the function and beauty of your smile.
If you’re unsure what are the signs that I might need a dental filling or crown, the team at Dental Care of Lombard is the best resource.
Protect Your Smile Early – Visit Dental Care of Lombard, IL, Today
If you’re asking, “What are the signs that I might need a dental filling or crown?” don’t wait to act. The sooner you catch the problem, the easier (and less expensive) it is to fix.
Your dentist in Lombard, IL, is only one call or click away. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Glud on our website here, or reach the team at Dental Care of Lombard at (630) 629-5700 for help booking an appointment today.
