If you have regular pain in a tooth, this could be due to a cavity or even the early stages of infection. To stop pain and prevent the risk of eventual tooth loss, we may need to place a restoration. In today’s blog, Dr. Robert M. Berowne talks about helping Prairie Village, KS, smiles with a dental filling!
The Factors Behind Cavities and Toothaches
How do you know if you have a cavity, and what causes one to form? If you attend routine checkup and cleaning visits, then we could likely catch the decay in the early stages. Otherwise, you likely won’t know you need treatment until your tooth begins to hurt, which could indicate a cavity or early infection. Toothaches and tooth sensitivity are not to be ignored, you need to see us right away!
Cavities form when harmful oral bacteria reach the inner dentin, the sensitive structure that makes up most of your teeth. Usually, outer enamel protects your teeth. But if factors like poor brushing and flossing, a diet high in sugar, and infrequent cleanings create plaque and tartar buildup, this can weaken and erode outer enamel.
Help with a Dental Filling
In one visit, we can offer relief with a dental filling. We will examine the tooth with digital x-rays to accurately assess the position and severity of your decay. Next, we will numb your tooth to ensure you stay comfortable as we remove decay from the tooth and clean it. We may also etch the outer structure as needed. Our team will next place the filling material, a unique blend of glass-like and acrylic particles, which can be shaded to blend with the tooth. The material is also biocompatible and bonds with it as well. Once we apply the material, we will shape the tooth to ensure proper balance as the material cures under a light. The last step is to polish the tooth for a brighter appearance!
What About Crowns
On only one visit, we can treat a cavity with a filling. But what if you have more severe decay or infection, beyond the ability to treat with composite resin in a filling or bonding procedure. In a situation like this, we can help with a dental crown. The restoration will cap the tooth and ensure a durable structure and lifelike appearance. We can shade this to match your tooth and ensure daily bite forces with ease!
Treatment in One Visit with Help from Dr. Browne, DDS.
We want to help you smile with comfort and ease, and can help stop pain with a dental restoration! To find out more about restorative dental care, or to schedule an appointment, please call Dr. Robert M. Browne, D.D.S. in Prairie Village, KS at (913) 901-8585.
