Tooth decay impacts people of all ages, from kids to adults, and could mean infection or even tooth loss unless treated. To halt the cavity and prevent further pain, we may suggest a filling. In today’s blog, your Houston, TX, dentist will explain how we use our fillings, made from a lifelike material, to provide relief from a cavity!
While metal fillings are an effective means of treating a cavity, the material often contains trace amounts of mercury, making them unsafe for young children, pregnant women, or the elderly or those with metal allergies. Instead, we could create one using composite resin. Not only is composite resin metal-free, using a blend of glass and acrylic, but we color-match the material to ensure it blends with your tooth and the rest of your smile. No one will be able to tell you have a restoration! The material is also used in dental bonding procedures to provide a lifelike repair for chipped, cracked, stained, or misshapen teeth.
If we find you have a case of tooth decay, we will administer a numbing agent to keep you comfortable while we remove the decay and then thoroughly clean the tooth. We then prepare and place the material onto the tooth, filling the portions where the decay was removed. The dentist will shape and sculpt the area, and then cure the composite resin with a special light. We will check the balance to make sure your bite fits together properly. Finally, we polish the tooth for a more attractive appearance, completing your treatment in only one visit!
How do you know when you have a cavity? Well, the most common warning signs are discomfort, such as tooth sensitivity or toothaches. However, if you attend checkup and cleaning visit every six months, we could identify cavities in the early stages, before you experience discomfort. A cleaning also helps prevent cavities by removing the plaque buildup that weakens outer enamel. Other preventive measures you could take include consuming fewer sugary foods and drinks, which feed harmful oral bacteria. You should also brush and floss daily to keep your smile clean. If you have any questions about our lifelike treatment options, or about how we prevent the onset of issues like dental cavities, then contact our team today.
MMC Dental is ready to help you avoid the onset of tooth decay and if necessary, offer a lifelike solution. To learn more about the process of treating issues like dental cavities you can start by scheduling your next appointment at MMC Dental in Houston, TX by calling 713-926-8896.
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