When a tooth develops a cavity, this could mean discomfort and major problems for your smile. To bring relief and avoid the onset of an infection or abscess, you need a restoration. In today’s blog, your Allen, TX, dentist talks about how we treat cavities with a composite resin dental filling in only one visit!
When You Have a Cavity
The enamel that coats our teeth is a very durable material that can protect the teeth from exposure to bacteria and from injury. But various factors could weaken the enamel, such as an injury, untreated teeth grinding, or poor oral hygiene habits. Lack of proper brushing and flossing, combined with a diet high in sugar, could lead the teeth vulnerable to cavities, exposing the sensitive inner structures to bacteria. Once a cavity forms, you could begin to notice tooth sensitivity when you eat or speak, or possibly a toothache that grows in severity and doesn’t abate. When this happens, give us a call right away!
Placing a Dental Filling
First, we will perform a diagnosis, carefully examining the smile with detailed digital imaging software. This enables us to design and assess the cause and severity of your cavity. In many cases, we will provide relief in one visit with a dental filling. First, we want to make sure you’re comfortable, so we will administer a local anesthetic to numb the tooth. For patients with anxiety, we could discuss sedation.
Once you’re comfortable, we will remove the decay from the tooth and gently clean it, possibly etching the surfaces as well. Next, we apply the restorative material. Instead of metal, we will use a composite resin that is metal-free, and safe for all ages. This can also be color-matched to blend with the smile seamlessly. We then shape the tooth as the material cures beneath a special light. The last step is to polish the tooth thoroughly!
Taking a Preventive Approach
We can also recommend ways to avoid the onset of tooth decay. For example, be sure you and your family start and end each day by brushing your teeth for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste. Each session should take at least two minutes to properly reach every available surface. Also, you need to floss every evening to remove the food particles beyond the reach of a toothbrush. Try to cut back on sugary foods and drinks, and also make time to see us for a checkup and cleaning!
Talk to Your Allen, TX Dentist About Restorative Dentistry
We would like to help kids and adults alike about the onset of cavities and infections! If you want to know more about treating painful cavities, or if you are ready to book an appointment, contact your Allen, TX, dentist, Dr. Torrens-Parker, by calling 469-342-6644.
