What treatment will your El Paso, TX, dentists recommend if you develop one or more dental cavities? In today’s blog, we’re looking at our lifelike fillings for teens and adults, and our minimal restorations for children, which can help return smiles to optimal health, function, and beauty. How do we ensure a lifelike restoration, and how do you know if you have a cavity?
Dental Fillings
For teens and adults, we may suggest a dental filling. A cavity forms in the teeth when the outer layer of enamel is weakened, either as a result of cracks or chips, or poor oral hygiene damaging and eroding this protective layer. Bacteria then reaches the inner dentin, leading to a painful cavity. To treat it, we remove the decay and then clean the tooth thoroughly. We may also etch the surface before applying the material we use to repair the tooth. Instead of metal, we often opt for a composite resin that is made from a unique blend of glass and acrylic. We shade the material to ensure it blends with the tooth. We next sculpt the material as we cure it under a light. Finally, we polish the tooth for a more attractive appearance. The entire process takes one sitting!
Minimal Restorations
When children develop cavities, they need treatment. Don’t ignore them assuming the baby teeth fall out and don’t require treatment. The tooth could fall out months or even years after a cavity forms, meaning an infection will likely occur and the tooth will be lost prematurely, which impacts how the permanent teeth erupt and increases the risk of dental misalignment. With a minimal restoration, we provide a filling made from the same lifelike material we offer for adults and teens. The restoration can be placed in one visit and ensures the smile stays healthy and whole, allowing baby teeth to fall out as they should on their own schedule.
When to See Us
What are the warning signs of a cavity? People often report tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. A toothache could form that doesn’t subside after a day or two. If you attend routine checkups and cleanings every six months, we will likely identify a cavity before you experience these warning signs, so you avoid discomfort and reduce your risk of dental infection. If you have any questions about identifying and treating cavities, then contact our team today. We would love to help your family enjoy healthy smiles with a lifelike restoration.
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO, TX ABOUT RESTORING SMILES
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, we can help you enjoy a brighter and more attractive smile in just one visit. For more information on our restorative treatment options, contact your El Paso, TX, dentists at Sunny Smiles on Dyer Street by calling 915-859-7000.