When a tooth develops a cavity, this could eventually cause a toothache. As the pain increases with time, teeth could even become infected. But our team can help stop tooth decay and provide relief with a tooth filling. In today’s blog, your Prairie Village, KS, dentist talks about our custom tooth fillings.
The Causes and Symptoms of Cavities
How does a cavity form in a tooth? Each tooth is protected with a thin but powerful layer of enamel. However, plaque buildup could weaken and erode the enamel. This sticky layer is brought on by factors like a diet high in sugar and starch, or poor brushing and flossing habits. Injury to the teeth or teeth grinding could also damage the enamel. As bacteria can now access the sensitive inner layers of dentin, a cavity will form. You need treatment because the cavity will grow and spread with time, eventually leading to an infected tooth and an increased risk of tooth loss! But we can help in one sitting with a dental filling.
Creating Your Tooth-Colored Fillings
If we examine your tooth and find a cavity, then our team will offer help with a filling. To begin, we will numb the tooth to ensure you are comfortable as we remove all decay and thoroughly clean it. We then prepare the restorative material. Instead of metal, we opt for a metal-free and biocompatible material known as composite resin, which we can shade to blend with your tooth. We apply this in several layers, and then sculpt and mold the tooth to ensure a lifelike appearance and a balanced bite. We finally polish the tooth for a more natural appearance. In only one sitting, this can provide relief from your cavity and prevent the onset of an infection!
Protecting Your Teeth
You can take measures to help prevent the onset of cavities, and these actions can help patients of all ages! For example, make sure you brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. Each session should take at least two minutes. You also need to floss before you brush that second time, cleaning up and down each side of each tooth, and dipping beneath the gum line in the process. We also recommend reducing the amount of sugar and starch in your diet, and avoiding tobacco products.
If you have any questions about how our team will safeguard your smile or about treating cavities with a lifelike and durable filling, then contact our team today.
Learn More About Our Dental Restorations
Dr. Browne and his team in Prairie Village, KS, are ready to take on cavities with lifelike tooth restorations. When you have an aching tooth, then reach out to our team today by calling 913-901-8585 to get started!
