Protect Your Enamel With Fillings

When you have tooth decay, your enamel is at risk of being deteriorated. If this happens, there is no way to replace or regrow it. To stop the progression of a cavity, a filling will need to be done. Dr. Browne and his team offer natural-looking fillings that can help repair your tooth after damage and protect the enamel from permanent damage.

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What Causes Decay?

Cavities are one of the most common dental problems that patients face. This is when holes are created in your pearly white due to harmful bacteria wearing away your enamel. To prevent this problem, you should brush and floss twice a day. Brushing your teeth helps remove food particles from the surface of your teeth, and flossing helps reach areas between your pearly whites. These steps are essential to keeping your breath smelling fresh and your smile healthy. You should also be visiting the dentist every six months for a checkup. During your appointment, special tools will be used to remove plaque that cannot be taken off with a toothbrush. Your dentist may be able to notice early signs of erosion, and preventive measures can be taken to remineralize your enamel and prevent a cavity from forming.

Getting A Restorative Filling

If you do have a cavity, it is important to have this treated as soon as possible to prevent more serious damage. In a separate appointment from your checkup, a filling can be done. During this restorative process, the decayed part will be removed, and the space will be filled with composite resin. This material is lifelike, durable, and easily bondable. By filling a cavity, it will stop the progression of decay and protect your tooth from further damage.

Ignoring Dental Decay

Leaving a cavity untreated can lead to further erosion of your tooth. After the cavity has worn away your enamel, it will begin to deteriorate the dentin, and can eventually reach the pulp. Untreated cavities can cause sensitivity or toothaches when eating certain foods. This area is an important layer that provides nutrients to the structure and also contains nerves and blood vessels. If the decay reaches this layer, it may cause severe discomfort and swelling. At this point, root canal treatment may be necessary. During this restorative process, the damaged pulp will be taken out and the area will be filled with a stronger material. A crown may be placed on top to further protect the tooth and provide support. If the area is severely damaged, an extraction may be necessary instead. After you recover from this procedure, your dentist may discuss prosthetic replacement options with you.

Do You Have A Cavity?

If you have decay, your dentist may have told you that you need a filling. To schedule this appointment, call Dr. Browne’s team in Prairie Village, KS, today at (913) 901-8585.