One thing a dentist will do after removing a cavity and placing a filling in the tooth is perform steps to make sure the filling fits perfectly. To do this, the dentist will complete several steps, and the goal is to make sure that the filling is not rubbing against other teeth in the mouth, primarily teeth that are just above or below it, depending on which arch the filling is located in. If the dentist does not shape the filling just right, it could end up being a high filling. Here are several things to know about this.

What is a high filling?

To put a filling in a tooth, the dentist begins by removing the decay. This process leaves a hole in the tooth, and the dentist then fills the tooth with a composite bonding material. The goal is to put enough material in the tooth to fill the hole but not add too much to it. Adding too much creates a high filling, which occurs when the filling is too big and can rub against the tooth above or below it.

What problems can occur from a high filling?

When you have a high filling, it can lead to problems. First of all, it may feel weird to you when you close your mouth. Secondly, this filling can rub against the tooth below or above it, causing damage to this other tooth. Additionally, the filling could end up falling out from the tension and pressure it has from rubbing against another tooth.

What can you do if you think the filling is not right?

If you suspect that you have a high filling, you should visit the dentist who put the filling in. The dentist may place special paper in your mouth and ask you to rub your teeth back and forth. This paper will show exactly where the high spot is on the filling, and the dentist can then use a dental drill to shave the spot down. Afterwards, the dentist will again check it to make sure that it is even with the other teeth in your mouth.

It is often hard to tell if a filling feels right just after getting it, primarily because your mouth will be numb, but you will feel a problem later on if there is one. To learn more about cavities and general dentistry, schedule a visit with a dental clinic today.