Can a dentist botch a filling?
Can a dentist botch a filling?
If you have had a cavity filling that you feel has been done improperly, your dentist may be liable for failure to fulfill their duty of care to you.
What can go wrong with dental fillings?
Regular daily wear and tear from grinding chewing, or clenching can cause dental fillings to chip, crack or simply break down over time. If the seal between the filling and the enamel of your tooth breaks down, food particles and bacteria can work their way in under the filling, and cause additional decay to form.
What does a bad filling feel like?
One common symptom of a filling that’s having trouble is a sharp pain when biting down or chewing on that single tooth. This could also be associated with a change in texture, especially if the filling is on the lingual side of the tooth near your tongue.
How do I know if my filling is infected?
Symptoms
- Severe, persistent, throbbing toothache that can radiate to the jawbone, neck or ear.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
- Sensitivity to the pressure of chewing or biting.
- Fever.
- Swelling in your face or cheek.
- Tender, swollen lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck.
Can a filling get infected?
There is a slight chance that an infection has erupted after the filling, causing the discomfort and throbbing pain. Damage to the teeth or the filling may expose nerves and sensitive tissues inside the tooth, triggering tooth sensitivity if exposed to hot or cold beverages.
How do you know if a filling needs to be replaced?
To help you protect your smile, teeth, and gums, here are 6 signs your filling may need to be replaced:
- The Filling is Cracked.
- Your Tooth Hurts.
- You Have Sensitivity When You Drink Cold Beverages.
- Your Filling is Discolored.
- You Were Injured.
- Your Filling is Old.
What happens when a filling is too deep?
An irritated nerve is not uncommon when a deep filling is placed. Irritated nerves can result in inflammation and can cause pain. Your enamel and cementum usually protect the nerve from exposure, but deep fillings can reach the nerve endings and cause uncomfortable, sharp sensations.
How long should a filling last?
On average, you can expect a metal filling to last for about 15 years before needing to be replaced, but the length of time can vary based on several factors, such as if you grind or clench your teeth. Tooth-colored fillings are made from a mixture of fine glass and plastic particles.
How do you tell if I need a root canal or a filling?
Root canal therapy may be needed if you have a decayed tooth that has reached the pulp and caused an infection. This option is chosen for severe cases when dental fillings are no longer a viable option. Persistent or severe tooth pain may be a sign you need a root canal.