When a tooth develops a cavity, this could eventually lead to a toothache or even the onset of a dental infection. However, we have a treatment that in one visit, can ease discomfort and protect the tooth. In today’s blog, your El Paso, TX, dentists discuss how we treat cavities with our lifelike dental fillings.
The Need for a Dental Restoration
A dental filling is a restoration designed to treat tooth decay. By treating a cavity, you prevent it from becoming an infection that threatens tooth stability, and leads to worsening discomfort. You may need one once you notice tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, or a toothache that doesn’t subside after a day or two. Persistent discomfort could be a warning sign of not only a cavity, but one in a more advanced stage. Treatment is crucial at this stage for avoiding the onset of infection or even the potential loss of the tooth.
The Composite Resin Difference
While metal fillings are effective, they could be problematic for young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with metal allergies. But with a composite resin option, we have a metal-free restoration that we can shade to blend with the tooth. The composite resin filling is also safe for all ages, and provides a long-lasting repair for your tooth. In fact, we use the same material in our dental bonding procedures to treat cosmetic concerns, such as damaged teeth, permanent discoloration, or even unsightly gaps between the teeth.
Placement and Prevention
To place a filling, we start by examining the smile to assess the severity and position of the cavity. Our team will then remove the decay and clean the tooth thoroughly. We keep you comfortable throughout the process with a local anesthetic. We then prepare and place the filling material in several layers, sculpting the tooth as the composite resin cures beneath a special light. The last step is to polish the tooth for a brighter appearance. The entire process only takes one visit!
Moving forward, you can lower your risk of tooth decay by cutting back on sugary foods and drinks and brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. You should floss every evening, and make time to see us every six months for a checkup and a dental cleaning, in which we remove all harmful plaque and tartar buildup that could weaken enamel to cause cavities.
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO, TX, ABOUT STOPPING TOOTH DECAY
In a single visit, we can offer a lifelike solution to tooth decay! If you’re ready to treat the source of your toothache, then contact our Sunny Smiles location on N Zaragoza Rd in El Paso, TX at 915-849-9000.