Tooth sensitivity can make everyday activities—such as drinking a cup of coffee or eating a scoop of ice cream—unpleasant. Many people ask if they can get relief from dental fillings in Jacksonville. While a short answer would be yes, more often than not fillings can help with sensitivity, now let’s expand upon what that means and when you’ll want to consider it.
Why Do Teeth Become Sensitive?
Sensitivity in your teeth usually happens when the enamel, or covering of your tooth, is worn down or damaged, and the softer inside of your tooth (dentin) is exposed. There are little tubules in the dentin that lead to the nerve in your tooth. If something hot, cold, sweet, or acidic hits the tubules, it can cause pain.
Some of the common reasons you may have sensitivity include:
- Cavities (decay in your teeth)
- Worn enamel from teeth grinding or brushing too hard
- Gums are receding and exposing the root surface
- Chipped or cracked tooth
- Outdated or chipped fillings
Can Dental Fillings Relieve Tooth Sensitivity?
Yes, fillings can be very effective. Here’s how:
- Seal Cavities: When decay creates holes in your teeth, fillings close the gap and stop outside triggers from reaching the nerve.
- Cover Worn Spots: If enamel is missing in certain areas, fillings act like a shield.
- Repair Cracks or Chips: A filling can restore the tooth’s surface, making it less sensitive.
Typically, sensitivity caused by cavities or cracks can be reduced with the help of fillings.
What Types of Fillings Are Used for Sensitivity?
Depending on the needs of your tooth, your dentist may suggest different materials:
| Type of Filling | When It’s Used | Benefits |
| Composite (tooth-colored) | Small to medium cavities, front or back teeth | Blends in naturally with teeth |
| Amalgam (silver-colored) | For bigger cavities, in the back teeth | Durable and strong |
| Glass Ionomer | Near the gum line, small repairs | Releases fluoride to help protect the tooth |
| Ceramic | For exposed areas of visible teeth with both strength and appearance. | Stain resistant |
Each one works to block sensitivity by sealing the exposed area and continues to protect the tooth.
Do All Sensitive Teeth Need Fillings?
Not necessarily. Sensitivity doesn’t mean you have to have a filling. Your sensitivity can be alleviated or managed with:
- Fluoride treatments that reduce the loss of enamel.
- Desensitizing toothpaste can help calm the nerve response involved in dentin sensitivity.
- Bonding treatments that can cover the exposed surfaces of roots.
- Better brushing techniques. Often, sensitivity results from brushing your teeth too hard.
This is why it is important to see a dentist near you. They will determine whether your tooth sensitivity comes from cavities, gum problems, or other factors.
What Happens During a Filling Appointment?
If your dentist recommends a filling, this is what you can expect:
- Examination and X-rays: To determine the extent of the cavity or damage.
- Numbing: The dentist will give you a local anesthesia, which will make you feel comfortable.
- Cleaning: Preparing the tooth by clearing out any decayed or broken areas.
- Placing filling: The material is installed and designed to match your tooth.
- Finishing touches: The tooth will be polished to help create a smooth bite.
A dental visit for a single filling will usually take less than an hour.
How Do Fillings Compare to Other Sensitivity Treatments?
Fillings are especially helpful when sensitivity is caused by cavities or cracks. If dental fillings near you are an option, here’s how they work compared to other ways to ease sensitivity:
| Cause of Sensitivity | Treatment | Effective? |
| Small cavity | Dental fillings for cavities | Yes |
| Gum recession | Bonding, fluoride, desensitizing paste | Sometimes |
| Worn enamel | Fillings, fluoride, lifestyle changes | Yes |
| Cracks | Dental fillings for sensitive teeth or crowns | Yes |
This shows why a personalized treatment plan is important.
When Should You See a Dentist in Jacksonville?
If your sensitivity:
- Lasts more than a few days
- Gets worse over time
- It is triggered by many types of food or drink.
- Comes with sharp or throbbing pain
Then it’s time to see a dentist in Jacksonville. Waiting can make the problem worse and may lead to bigger treatments down the road.
Protect Your Smile with Phelan & Bell Family Dentistry
Tooth sensitivity shouldn’t hold you back from enjoying your favorite foods or drinks. With the appropriate treatment, you can experience a significant enhancement to your life, whether you are in need of treatment or just preventive advice.
At Phelan & Bell Family Dentistry, we help our patients with sensitivity or cavities, but also work to keep smiles healthier.. If you’ve been delaying treatment, now is a wonderful time to do it. Call today to schedule an appointment and see how easy, comfortable care can help you smile with confidence!
