A dental filling is a restoration that helps address tooth decay, stopping your painful aches and sensitivity. In today’s blog, your Houston, TX, dentist will discuss the factors behind a cavity, and how we can use our tooth-colored composite resin fillings to put a stop to discomfort and prevent infection from developing.
The Causes and Warning Signs of Tooth Decay
A cavity means that the outer enamel has become worn or damaged, allowing harmful oral bacteria to reach the sensitive inner layers of dentin. This could be due to plaque and tartar weakening and eroding the outer enamel, which happens as a result of eating sugar and starch-rich foods and not practicing good oral hygiene habits. You could also have a tooth damaged in an injury, or worn down as a result of teeth grinding. As the decay spreads and grows more severe, you will experience sensitivity when you eat, and could develop a toothache. If you attend checkup visits, we will identify a cavity risk in the earliest stages of demineralization, before you experience discomfort. Otherwise, you won’t need to see us until your teeth are sensitive or ache.
Creating a Lifelike Dental Filling
We start with an examination to identify the presence and severity of your cavity. Next, we administer a local numbing agent and then remove decay for the tooth. Afterward, we clean the tooth thoroughly and apply the filling material. Instead of metal, we have a composite resin that is safe for people of all ages and metal-free. We color-match the material to blend with your smile. After applying it to the tooth, we sculpt and mold the tooth as the material cures under a light. Finally, we polish the tooth for a brighter appearance. The entire process only takes one visit, and helps prevent further discomfort or an infection.
Preventing Future Cases of Decay
To help fight cavities, try to reduce plaque and tartar in between cleaning visits. You should brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste for two minutes, and floss every evening. Consuming fewer foods and drinks high in sugar and starch is helpful too. A cleaning appointment every six months lets us remove all plaque and tartar completely from your smile. In the same visit, we examine your smile for signs of trouble, so we can provide treatment early. If you have any questions about how we treat tooth decay, or about how a filling helps stop cavities, then contact our team today.
TALK TO MMC DENTAL ABOUT RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY
Our team is ready to help tackle decay and infection to restore the health of your smile. For more information on our restorative treatment options, then contact your Houston, TX, dentist, Dr. Chan, by calling 713-926-8896.