If you have pain in your smile, this could mean you have a cavity that requires treatment. Without a restoration, the cavity could grow more severe until pain increases the risk of infection. In order to stop the aches and return your tooth to optimal health, function, and beauty, your Des Moines, IA, dentist may suggest a lifelike tooth-colored filling.
The Dangers of Dental Cavities
A cavity forms when harmful bacteria is able to bypass the protective layer of outer tooth enamel, reaching the inner dentin. Much more sensitive than enamel, dentin is where cavities form and continue to grow unless treated. Eventually, the bacteria could reach the tooth’s nerve center, the inner pulp that oversees the flow of blood and nutrients to and from the tooth. At this stage an infection or abscess could form, leading to severe discomfort and the risk of tooth loss. Cavities often occur when injury to the teeth, such as chips or cracks, or poor oral hygiene, weaken, damage, or erode enamel, enabling bacteria to reach dentin.
Our Lifelike Dental Fillings
By treating the cavity, you prevent infections and help reduce the chances of severe discomfort developing. Treatment begins with the removal of the decay and a thorough tooth cleaning. Next, we prepare our metal-free filling material. A blend of acrylic and quartz-like particles, composite resin can actually be shaded to match the tooth structure. We apply the material in several layers, shaping the tooth as we cure the composite resin under a special light. We then polish the tooth to ensure a more natural appearance. The entire process only takes one visit to complete, and helps restore the health of your smile.
Keeping Your Smile Healthy and Cavity-Free
Following treatment, you may be interested in what steps can help avoid future cavities. First, be sure you’re brushing and flossing every day, as these actions remove food particles and limit the severity of plaque buildup, a bacterial byproduct that weakens tooth enamel. Make time to see us every six months for checkup, so we can identify the problem in the earliest stages. We also perform cleanings, which remove plaque to protect the smile from cavities. At home, be sure you’re cutting back on sugary foods and drinks, which can promote tooth decay. If you have any questions about keeping your smile healthy and free of tooth decay, or about our lifelike dental fillings, then contact our team today.
GATEWAY DENTAL GROUP TREATS TOOTH DECAY
We can halt the progression of tooth decay and protect your smile from further discomfort or damage. To learn more about restorative dentistry in Des Moines, IA, then please give us a call. To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (515) 244-9565.