When you have a cavity, this could eventually lead to toothaches, and the risk of a lost tooth due to advanced infections or abscesses. To treat the tooth and prevent poor oral health, you need a dental filling. In today’s blog, your Des Moines, IA, dentist is going to explain how we create a custom and natural-looking dental restoration.
The Dangers of Tooth Decay
A cavity forms in the inner tissues of your tooth, known as the dentin. Typically, the outer enamel prevents this from occurring, but if poor oral hygiene or injury damages the enamel, this means bacteria can reach the dentin beneath to cause a cavity. Unless addressed, the problem could grow in size and severity, reaching the inner pulp over time and causing an infection or abscess. If you attend regular checkup and cleaning visits twice a year, then our team can likely identify the earliest stages of decay, demineralization. Otherwise, you may not realize you need care until the later stages, at which point your tooth could hurt regularly.
The Value of a Filling
A filling is a way to remove decay and provide new structure for the damaged and decayed portions of your tooth. We start by administering a local anesthetic, and possibly sedation for particularly anxious patients. Next, we remove any decay and thoroughly clean the tooth. We apply the filling material and then cure it under a special light. The final step involves polishing the tooth thoroughly. The procedure only takes one visit, and helps prevent the need for a root canal or crown placement. To lower the risk of future cavities, try to cut back on sugary foods and drinks, and brush and floss your teeth daily. Be sure to see us for a cleaning every six months too!
Using Lifelike Composite Resin
Metal is effective for restoring teeth, but could also be problematic for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and of course, those with metal allergies. However, composite resin is safe for people of all ages, containing no metal at all. In fact, this blend of glass and acrylic can be shaded to blend with the appearance of your tooth, ensuring a restoration that looks natural. If you have any questions about the causes of tooth decay, or about preventive options, let us know. If you have an aching tooth, be sure to schedule an appointment to receive a dental filling.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR COSMETIC RESTORATIONS?
We would like to help you enjoy a healthy smile by treating cavities with cosmetic restorations. To learn more about our approach to treating cavities, then schedule a consultation with Dr. Burds by calling Gateway Dental Group in downtown Des Moines, IA, at (515) 244-9565.