When a cavity arises, whether you’re 8 or 80, you need to see your El Paso, TX, dentists. Otherwise, that minor cavity could soon lead to major discomfort and even the risk of a lost tooth! To treat cavities, we use a lifelike and metal-free filling, one safe for people of all ages. How do we place a filling, and when should you see our team for one?
Tooth Decay Impacts Smiles of All Ages
No matter how old you are, your teeth are coated in a thin layer of enamel, the toughest material in the human body. The enamel protects the sensitive inner layers of dentin and pulp from harmful bacteria. However, if poor oral hygiene allows plaque to form, this eventually weakens the enamel and erodes this layer. Or the tooth itself could become cracked or chipped. When these issues occur, the inner layers are now vulnerable to bacteria and a cavity could develop. The cavity itself will continue to grow and spread until the dentist treats it, preventing the onset infection or other complications. If you attend routine checkups then we’ll likely uncover the cavity in the earliest stages. Otherwise, you may not know you need attention until your tooth aches or feels sensitive.
Creating Your Minimal Restoration
For both kids and adults, we usually treat a cavity with a filling, also known as minimal restoration. We start by removing decay from the tooth and then thoroughly cleaning it. Next, we prepare the filling material, a metal-free blend of glass and acrylic known as composite resin that is safe for people of all ages and that can be shaded to impact the color of tooth structure. We apply the material in several layers and then sculpt and mold the tooth as we cure the composite resin under a light. The final step is to polish the tooth for a more lifelike appearance.
What If I Need a Crown?
If you have more substantial cavities, or if the tooth is already infected, then we may create a crown which covers the visible portion of your tooth. We again fabricate them from lifelike material, such as ceramic, and placement takes between one and two visits. If you have any questions about treating cavities, or about preventing them, then contact our team today to learn more. With the right steps, you can help safeguard your family’s smiles!
SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO PROVIDES RESTORATIVE CARE
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, we’re ready to help people of all ages enjoy better oral health by treating their cavities and preventing the onset of serious complications. For more information on our preventive and restorative treatment options or to schedule your next consultation, contact our N. Zaragoza dental practice by calling 915-849-9000.