Treating Tooth Decay While Preserving Your Appearance

Smiling woman with no visible dental problemsIf a cavity has already formed on a tooth, it will continue to worsen until you have restorative treatment performed by your dentist. Letting decay go untreated can lead to more permanent damage to your enamel, and it can result in a painful infection that requires a root canal procedure. Our Prairie Village, KS dentist’s office has experience taking care of individuals who need work done for decay. You can be happy to know that we are able to provide care with modern, tooth-colored restorations that provide functional support while also preserving the appearance of your smile.

A Permanent Restoration Is Needed To Restore A Tooth Damaged By Decay

Even if a cavity is caught in its early stages, the damage it does can be permanent. What this means is that your tooth will always require support from a permanent dental filling or dental crown. Without a restoration, the tooth can lack support to absorb bite pressure, and it can be vulnerable to new infections. Once a restoration is provided, you can feel confident that the tooth will remain protected, and that you can bite and chew without issues.

Do You Need A Dental Filling, Or Dental Crown?

The choice between restoring your tooth with a filling, or with a dental crown, will depend on what state it is in when you come in for treatment. Cavities that are caught relatively early can be restored with dental fillings. These restorations are a more conservative treatment option, as they protect a tooth while only occupying the space where decay formed. If there is too much damage, it can take a permanent dental crown to make sure that there are no problems. A crown completely covers a tooth above the gum line. There are multiple material types used to make dental crowns. If the tooth undergoing treatment is near the back of your mouth, and difficult to see, your dentist may recommend a metal crown to provide the most functional support. For a tooth that is more important for your smile, we can use a restoration made from porcelain or zirconia.

How Long Can A Restoration Provide Support For A Tooth?

A dental restoration provides permanent protection for a tooth. Once placed, a filling or crown will need to stay in place so that there are no new issues with your dental well-being. With smart daily habits and good preventive care, you can count on a restoration to offer lasting support. Your dentist can check on older fillings and crowns during routine dental exams – if they appear worn or loose, a replacement can be recommended.

Your Prairie Village, KS Dentist’s Office Offers Lifelike Restorations During Cavity Treatments

Our Prairie Village, KS dentist’s office has helped many people in our community deal with problems that concerned their oral health. To find out how a permanent restoration can take care of your smile and dental well-being, please call Dr. Browne’s Prairie Village dental practice at 913-901-8585.