When you have a cavity, this could eventually lead to toothaches and even the loss of your tooth. To treat the decay and preserve your smile, we may suggest a custom and lifelike composite resin dental filling. In today’s blog, your Des Moines, IA, dentist will discuss how we repair a cavity with a filling, and what steps you can take to avoid cavities.

The Dangers of Your Decayed Tooth

When tooth decay develops, this means that harmful oral bacteria has made contact with the inner dentin, the inner structure that makes up most of your tooth. This means the protective layer of outer enamel has been weakened, either by injury or teeth grinding, or more likely, plaque buildup brought on by poor oral health. The cavities will continue to grow and spread throughout the tooth, causing the cavity to grow more severe and leading to toothaches. Without treatment, this could cause infection and even risk the loss of the tooth completely! If you encounter sensitive teeth or aching ones, then let us know right away!

Custom Fillings

What happens if we discover a cavity? If so, then we may offer treatment with a dental filling. To begin, we will administer a local numbing agent and then gently remove any decay from the tooth. We then clean the tooth and may etch the surfaces too. The composite resin material will be added in several layers, and we will sculpt and mold the tooth as the material sures under a light. We then polish the tooth for a brighter appearance. In one visit, we prevent the onset of an infection and stop discomfort!

Cavity Prevention

We can treat the issue in one visit, but we can also discuss how to prevent the onset of a cavity too. For example, be sure you brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day, and use a fluoride toothpaste when you do. You should floss every evening too! Try to cut back on sugary foods and drinks too, and be sure to visit us every six months for a checkup and cleaning visit. These actions are simple, and can help safeguard teeth from the onset of a cavity.

If you have any questions about treating tooth decay with a dental filling, or about avoiding the onset of tooth decay, then contact our team to schedule your next visit. We want to help you and your family enjoy good oral health.

TALK TO YOUR DES MOINES, IA DENTIST’S OFFICE ABOUT RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY

We want to help you avoid the discomfort and complications of untreated tooth decay. If you would like to find out more about treating or preventing cavities, then contact your Des Moines, IA, dentist, Dr. Burds, by calling 515-244-9565.