Practicing healthy oral hygiene behaviors every day can help you prevent tooth decay and gum disease from taking hold in your mouth. When you brush and floss, you remove the buildup of bacteria and food debris that form plaque on the surface of your teeth. Unfortunately, certain conditions can cause cavities even in those that practice rigorous daily cleaning. Cavities result from irreversible harm to the tooth’s enamel and require the removal of decaying tissues. Because removing this tissue alters the structure of your tooth, a dental filling can provide sturdy support.
Your Prairie Village, KS dentist provides routine cleaning and examinations to best preserve the health of your smile! If we detect the presence of a cavity, we can remove it and place a filling to prevent further growth. We will work together to hone your at-home oral hygiene and prevent future decay.
Cavities Result From Enamel Erosion
A cavity is a hole in your tooth that results from damage to its protective surface. When oral bacteria feed on food debris in your mouth, they form a plaque that attaches to the surface of your teeth. When we fail to remove plaque with daily brushing and flossing, the bacteria create acids that wear away at your enamel. For this reason, you must stay on top of your oral hygiene and attend regular checkups and cleanings to remove plaque regularly.
Because bacteria that cause decay thrive on sugary foods, a healthy diet can help minimize the threat of cavities. Certain energy drinks and sodas also contain acids that erode your enamel, so be aware of their content as well. Tobacco products are associated with higher rates of decay which is one of the reasons dentists discourage their use.
Protecting Your Tooth With A Dental Filling
When we detect a cavity, we will use special tools to remove the infected material from your tooth. While this prevents the infection from growing in scope, it permanently alters the structure of your tooth. To restore its function and appearance, we can place a dental filling to build up the damaged area. The filling’s composite resin will harden quickly and offer eye-pleasing results. At following visits, we will inspect the status of your restoration and provide regular cleaning to support the health of your tooth.
Speak With Your Prairie Village, KS Dentist About Treating Cavities With A Dental Filling
When you delay treating tooth decay, you risk losing the entire tooth and other oral health complications. By removing your cavity and placing a dental filling, we can preserve the remaining healthy tooth and return your bright smile! For more information on how we treat cavities and other threats to your oral health, contact our Prairie Village, KS dentist’s office today at 913-901-8585.
