Cavities are one of the most common dental problems that patients face. They can cause sensitivity when eating, toothaches, and can even cause discoloration. If you have a cavity, your dentist will be able to see it during your cleaning and exam. It is important to treat decay as soon as possible to prevent further damage from occurring. At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, we use biocompatible resin to fill cavities and restore your smile.
Causes Of Cavities
Tooth decay occurs when a buildup of plaque occurs and begins to dissolve your enamel. A good oral hygiene routine and regular trips to the dentist can help prevent this problem, but everyone has a chance of developing a cavity. Frequent snacking, sugary foods or beverages, age, genetics, and tooth location can all be factors in the likelihood of decay.
Brushing your teeth helps remove particles from food and drinks throughout the day. Certain toothpaste containing fluoride can also help restrengthen your smile against cavity-causing bacteria. In addition to this, visiting the dentist every six months can help detect decay early. The beginning stages of decay can be reversed with proper care. If the cavity cannot be reversed, then a filling will be used to restore the area.
How A Filling Is Placed
This restorative method includes removing the damaged part and adding biocompatible resin in the leftover hole. By doing this, the cavity will be unable to continue growing and your tooth will be protected from future decay. If you have discomfort when chewing, this restoration can also help by restrengthening the area.
Before the filling, the area may be numbed for your comfort. Then, the dentist will remove the decay with a special tool. After that, the area will be cleaned and prepped for the material to be added. Once added, the tooth will be polished to ensure the material fits well and does not affect your bite.
After this appointment, you will need to wait at least thirty minutes for the filling to set. The numbing may take several hours to fully wear off. Be sure to continue following your oral hygiene routine as a filling is not a substitute for care.
Why We Use Biocompatible Resin
There are many materials that can be used for this restoration. Some dentists may use silver amalgam, gold, ceramic, or glass ionomer. We use biocompatible resin because it can be made to match the shade of your smile, and it bonds to and shapes well to the area. This can reduce the chances of the filling falling out or coming loose.
We Can Help Restore Your Tooth After A Cavity
Do not put off this necessary restoration. To schedule an appointment at Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, call us at:915.759.7000.