When tooth decay develops, treatment is crucial as even minor decay could eventually grow more severe and lead to a greater risk of infection and discomfort. In order to stop a cavity and return smiles to optimal health and function, your Tucson, AZ, dentist may suggest a lifelike dental filling. How do we use these natural-looking restorations to stop a cavity?
Do I Have Cavities?
A cavity forms when harmful bacteria is allowed access to the sensitive inner tooth structure, known as dentin. Typically, the outer layer of tooth enamel prevents this from happening. But should a tooth become cracked or chipped, or should poor oral hygiene allow plaque to accumulate and weaken enamel, then bacteria can reach the dentin and cause cavities. Over time, this could mean the tooth begins to ache and feel sensitive, and the pain could worsen as the decay becomes an infection or abscess. Treatment is crucial for preventing your minor cavity from threatening your tooth’s stability!
Treatment with Tooth-Colored Fillings
If you have pain in your smile, let us know. If we examine your teeth and find one or more cavities, then we will remove the decay and thoroughly clean the tooth. We then prepare and place the filling material. Made from a metal-free blend of quartz and acrylic particles, this material can be shaded to match the color of your tooth structure. We shape the tooth as we cure the composite resin under a light. We then polish the tooth, which helps provide a lifelike appearance. The entire procedure stops decay and prevents an infection from developing in one visit!
Preventing Future Cases of Cavities
How do you keep your smile cavity-free following treatment? To start, cut back on sugary foods and drinks, which could feed harmful bacteria and lead to cavities. In addition, be sure to brush your teeth when you wake up and again before bed for about two minutes per session. You also need to floss thoroughly before going to bed. Finally, make time to see us every six months for a checkup and cleaning visit, so we can keep an eye on your teeth and also remove plaque buildup to prevent enamel erosion. If you have any questions about prevention or treating cavities with fillings, then contact our team today.
Does Your Tooth Ache?
Remember, pain and sensitivity in your smile could mean cavities. For more information on treating tooth decay in just one visit, schedule a consultation with your dentist by calling Dr. Newman’s office in Tucson, AZ, today at 520-296-5439. We’re conveniently located inside the Grant Road Professional Plaza, and proudly welcome the residents of all surrounding communities.