🦷 When Should You Fill a Decayed Tooth?

 A small cavity might seem harmless—but tooth decay never stops on its own. The earlier it’s treated, the easier and more comfortable it is to fix. Here’s how to know when it’s time to fill a decayed tooth.

🪥 1. As Soon as You Notice a Cavity

If you see a brown or black spot, rough surface, or small hole, the decay has already started damaging enamel.

➡️ Early filling prevents it from spreading deeper into the dentin and causing pain.

😬 2. When There’s Sensitivity or Mild Pain

If you or your child feel discomfort while eating sweet, hot, or cold foods, it’s a warning sign.

➡️ Filling at this stage can save the tooth and avoid pulpal involvement (which would later need root canal or pulpectomy).

🦷 3. Before the Decay Reaches the Nerve

Once bacteria reach the pulp (nerve), pain becomes severe and constant.

➡️ At this stage, a simple filling will not work—you’ll need root canal or extraction.

Regular dental check-ups can detect decay before it reaches this point.

👶 4. Even in Baby Teeth!

Many parents think milk teeth don’t need fillings—but decay in them can:

Spread to permanent teeth,

Cause pain and infection,

Affect speech and chewing,

Lead to misaligned permanent teeth if lost early.

➡️ So yes, fill even baby teeth when decay starts.

💡 Key Takeaway

“Don’t wait for pain to start — fill when decay is small.”

Early fillings are:

✅ Painless

✅ Affordable

✅ Long-lasting

📍 At Shree Jayam Oral & Dental Clinic, Ambattur

We use child-friendly, pain-free techniques to restore teeth before the problem worsens.

Call us today for a quick dental check-up!

📞 9150990462 | 7550090462