Your teeth play a crucial role in your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently. Over time, however, teeth can become damaged due to decay, injury, or wear. When this happens, restorative treatments such as fillings or crowns are necessary to protect your teeth from further damage. At The Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry in Chesapeake, VA, we provide expert restorative care to keep your smile healthy and functional.

Here are the key signs that you might need a filling or crown and why seeking early treatment is essential:

1. Sensitivity to Hot, Cold, or Sweet Foods

If you’ve noticed increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, this could be an early sign of tooth decay or enamel erosion. A filling can often resolve small cavities and stop decay from spreading further. However, if the damage has progressed, a dental crown may be necessary to restore the tooth’s structure and protect it from further deterioration. At The Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry, we focus on early intervention to prevent more significant issues from developing.

Patients in search of a general dentist in Chesapeake, VA rely on us for prompt, effective care that restores their oral health and relieves discomfort.

2. Pain or Discomfort When Chewing

Pain or discomfort while chewing is often a sign of a cavity, cracked tooth, or other dental damage. Ignoring this discomfort can lead to more serious problems, such as infection or the need for a root canal. At The Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry, we provide expert care to relieve pain and restore the health of your tooth with fillings or crowns, depending on the severity of the issue.

As a top dentist in Chesapeake, VA, our goal is to treat issues early to prevent more invasive procedures down the line.

3. Visible Cracks, Chips, or Decay

If you notice visible cracks, chips, or decay on your teeth, it’s important to seek dental care immediately. Small cracks can weaken your tooth, making it more susceptible to further damage. A filling may be enough to restore the tooth, but for more extensive damage, a crown may be required to protect and strengthen the tooth. At The Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry, we offer both fillings and crowns to ensure your teeth remain healthy and functional.

4. Worn-Out or Loose Fillings

If you have older fillings that are starting to wear down or feel loose, it’s crucial to replace them before further decay occurs. Worn fillings can leave your tooth vulnerable to new damage, which may require more extensive treatment such as a crown. At The Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry, we assess your existing dental work and provide high-quality replacements to keep your teeth in optimal condition.

5. Comprehensive Restorative and Preventive Care

At The Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry, we offer more than just fillings and crowns—we provide comprehensive restorative care to address a wide range of dental issues. Whether you’re dealing with tooth decay, damage, or gum disease, our team is here to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Regular visits to our office for teeth cleanings in Chesapeake, VA can also prevent the need for more extensive restorative treatments in the future.

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with The Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry today.

Our skilled team is dedicated to providing personalized care, from fillings and crowns to clear aligner treatment, ensuring that your smile stays healthy and beautiful for years to come.