If you’ve recently had a dental filling and are experiencing discomfort, you might wonder, “Will a high filling fix itself?” In this article, we will explain what a high filling is, why it can cause problems, and whether it can heal on its own or if you need professional dental care.
What is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a material used by dentists to restore the shape of a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. The filling helps to seal the tooth and prevent further damage. Common filling materials include amalgam (silver), composite resin (tooth-colored), gold, and porcelain.
When a dentist places a filling, they first remove the decayed portion of the tooth. They then fill the space with the chosen material to restore the tooth’s shape and function. The filling may be level with the surface of the tooth, or in some cases, it may be slightly higher.
What is a High Filling?
A high filling occurs when the filling material is placed too high or protrudes above the normal tooth level. This means that when you bite down, the filling contacts the opposing tooth too early or with too much pressure. This can cause discomfort, pain, or even damage to other teeth. It’s important to address this issue as soon as possible to avoid long-term complications.
Causes of a High Filling
There are several reasons why a filling may end up being too high:
Improper Placement: Sometimes, the dentist may accidentally place the filling a little too high, especially if they are working quickly or not checking the bite properly.
Shrinkage of the Filling: Some filling materials, particularly composite resins, can shrink as they set. This shrinkage might leave the filling feeling higher than intended.
Changes in the Tooth Structure: Over time, the shape of the tooth can change. If the tooth moves or wears down slightly, the filling might feel too high in comparison.
Incomplete Adjustments: After the filling is placed, dentists usually check the bite and make any necessary adjustments. If these adjustments are missed or overlooked, the filling might end up being too high.
Symptoms of a High Filling
If you have a high filling, you may experience several symptoms, including:
Pain or Discomfort: You may feel pain when biting down on the tooth with the high filling. The pressure can cause soreness in the tooth or surrounding gums.
Sensitivity: The area around the filling might feel sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
Uneven Bite: You may notice that your bite feels off or uneven. You might even feel like the tooth is protruding.
Headaches: In some cases, the uneven bite caused by a high filling can lead to headaches, especially if you clench or grind your teeth at night.
Can a High Filling Fix Itself?
Unfortunately, a high filling will not fix itself over time. A filling is a solid material that does not change shape or shrink back to its intended level once it has been placed. If the filling is too high, it can cause continued discomfort, damage to the tooth, or issues with your bite.
Why a High Filling Won’t Fix Itself
The main reason a high filling won’t fix itself is that it is a solid material that does not naturally wear down or adjust to your bite. While natural tooth enamel can wear down over time, a dental filling remains in its original form unless it is physically adjusted.
Even though the discomfort might seem to lessen after a few days, this is not a sign that the filling is fixing itself. In fact, it could lead to further problems, including:
Damage to the Tooth: The pressure from a high filling can cause your tooth to become more sensitive or even crack.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Issues: An uneven bite can lead to jaw pain, clicking, and even difficulty opening and closing your mouth.
Worsening Pain: If the high filling is left unaddressed, the pain may get worse over time.
How is a High Filling Treated?
If you have a high filling, the best course of action is to visit your dentist. They will be able to evaluate the filling and make the necessary adjustments. Here’s what the process generally looks like:
Step 1: Examination
The dentist will carefully examine your filling to determine whether it is too high. They will check the way your teeth come together when you bite down and look for signs of wear or discomfort.
Step 2: Adjustment
If the filling is too high, the dentist will use special tools to carefully remove or shave down the filling material until it is level with the surrounding tooth surface. This will relieve the pressure and restore your bite.
Step 3: Testing the Bite
Once the adjustment is made, the dentist will ask you to bite down again to ensure that everything feels comfortable. They may continue making small adjustments until your bite is balanced and free from discomfort.
Step 4: Follow-Up
In some cases, the dentist may schedule a follow-up appointment to check that the adjustment has resolved the problem and that the filling is functioning properly.
What Happens If a High Filling is Left Untreated?
If you do not seek treatment for a high filling, the discomfort may continue or worsen. Here are some potential risks:
Increased Tooth Sensitivity: The constant pressure from the high filling can lead to increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
Tooth Damage: The pressure on the tooth can cause cracks or chips, leading to further decay or the need for more extensive dental work.
Bite Problems: A high filling can throw off the balance of your bite, leading to uneven wear on your teeth and potential issues with jaw alignment.
TMJ Issues: An improper bite can contribute to TMJ disorders, causing jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty opening or closing your mouth.
Preventing High Fillings in the Future
While it’s not always possible to prevent a high filling, there are steps you can take to ensure that your fillings are placed correctly:
Choose a Skilled Dentist: A dentist with experience will be more likely to place fillings correctly and check the bite thoroughly after each procedure.
Regular Dental Checkups: Regular visits to the dentist will help catch any issues with fillings early before they become problematic.
Pay Attention to Changes: If you notice changes in your bite or feel discomfort after getting a filling, don’t wait for it to go away on its own. Make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Conclusion
In summary, a high filling will not fix itself. If you have a filling that feels too high or causes discomfort, it’s important to seek dental care promptly. A simple adjustment by your dentist can resolve the issue and prevent further complications, such as tooth damage or jaw pain. Don’t ignore the problem—addressing it early will ensure that your filling works as intended and that your teeth remain healthy and pain-free.
Remember, taking care of your fillings and getting regular checkups is key to maintaining good oral health. If you’re unsure about your filling or experience any discomfort, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your dentist.
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