When you have a cavity, treatment is crucial to prevent a minor issue from causing serious discomfort or increasing the risk of infection. Fortunately, we can address cavities with a treatment that not only lasts for years to come, but also looks natural. In today’s blog, your Des Moines, IA, dentist discusses the benefits of tooth-colored dental fillings.
The Dangers of Untreated Tooth Decay
A cavity forms when bacteria makes contact with the inner dentin, the tooth structure that sits beneath the outer tooth enamel. This could happen if the enamel erodes due to plaque buildup, a bacterial byproduct that occurs as bacteria breaks down food particles trapped on or between the teeth. Other causes include cracked or chipped teeth, which could expose the inner dentin. Unless treated, a cavity grows more severe with time. Eventually, the decay could actually reach the inner pulp, your tooth’s nerve center, causing an infection. Not only does discomfort increase, but an infection could also lead to tooth loss as well.
Creating a Filling That Blends With Your Smile
When you have a tooth that aches or feels sensitive, then please contact our team for a consultation. If we discover the presence of decay during your examination, we will offer treatment with a dental filling, which halts discomfort and prevents infection from developing. We first remove the decay and then clean the tooth. We prepare the filling material, a composite resin that blends glass and acrylic and is metal-free. We shade the material to match the tooth and blend with the smile, ensuring a lifelike appearance. The last step involves polishing the tooth thoroughly. In one visit, we treat cavities and improve overall oral health.
Preventing Future Cases of Decay
Did you know that with a few simple changes to your daily routine, you can limit the risk of tooth decay? When we brush and floss daily, we remove trapped food particles and limit the risks of plaque buildup and cavities. You also help by cutting back on sugary foods and drinks, which deprives harmful bacteria of a meal. Finally, be sure you attend a checkup and cleaning every six months, so we can monitor your smile and remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth. If you have any questions about avoiding cavities or treating them in one visit, then contact our team today.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT TOOTH-COLORED FILLINGS?
We want to help treat decayed teeth in one visit with a restoration that looks completely natural. To learn more about restoring your smile’s health and beauty, then schedule a consultation with Dr. Burds by calling Gateway Dental Group in downtown Des Moines, IA, at (515) 244-9565.