Restoring a Tooth With a Dental Filling

Many people have had a dental filling. This is one of the most frequent treatments that a dentist will perform. If you have never had one, or if it has been a while, you may have questions about the process. Though you may feel some anxiety about it, there is nothing to fear. Your dentist will have the knowledge and training to successfully repair your cavity and restore your tooth. Learning more about fillings will help you feel more at ease with this procedure.

Tooth decay culprits

It is not uncommon for people to experience cavities. This is a significant issue for young patients, though it is also something that older people struggle with. Tooth decay is usually the result of not brushing enough or effectively. People should brush at least twice a day with a fluoride-based toothpaste. Doing this will preserve the tooth’s enamel and keep bacteria away from the teeth. Eating a diet high in sugar can also lead to tooth decay.

The diagnosis

Some people may know they have a cavity because of extreme tooth pain and discomfort. Larger cavities are visible to the eye. However, much of the time, the dentist will identify a cavity by taking and looking at X-rays or using a dental probe on the teeth. Once a dentist spots a cavity, the right treatment is planned. This is usually a dental filling, though a root canal may be necessary for more widespread decay.

The process

To put in a dental filling, the dentist will first numb the patient with a local anesthetic. Once the patient is comfortable, the dentist will dry the area where the cavity is located. The dentist will place rubber dams around the tooth to keep it dry. Next, the dentist will drill into the tooth and clean out the decay.

After removing all the decay, the dentist will also clean out any bacteria or other debris that could cause further cavities or infections. The dentist will then fill the cavity, sealing the tooth. Metal fillings, such as gold or silver, are available. Many patients prefer composite resin fillings.

The consequences of not getting a dental filling

No patient should ever put off getting treatment for a cavity. The dentist can get the patient in soon once a cavity is discovered. There are even emergency appointments for severe tooth decay. Ignoring this need will only make the cavity larger and more serious to the person’s oral health. The cavity could lead to tooth loss. An abscess could develop, which might spread throughout the mouth and into other areas of the body.

Get the treatment you need for your cavity

Cavity prevention is vital to your oral health. However, if you have a cavity, the dentist can restore your tooth and relieve your pain. With a dental filling, the dentist can clean out your tooth and keep it from suffering additional problems. If you have a toothache or believe tooth decay has struck you, make an appointment with your dentist and get the help you need.

Request an appointment here: https://stonecanyondental.com or call Stone Canyon Dental at (972) 996-3191 for an appointment in our Sunnyvale office.

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