At Cleary Dental we are trained to treat one of the world’s most common oral health problems: cavities. It is very important to practice good oral hygiene habits every day in order to prevent cavities. This means you should brush and floss your teeth twice a day or after each meal. You should also use a fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash; one with fluoride will do the best job of protecting you from cavities. Good oral health also means that you visit the dentist every six months for an exam and a cleaning. With regular checkups at the dentist, your problems can be solved before they have the potential to grow more complicated. If a cavity is left untreated it will affect the deeper layers of your tooth. To maintain good oral health, you must give your teeth sufficient attention every day.
YOU MAY HAVE A CAVITY
If you have a cavity, you may be experiencing problems like tooth sensitivity, spontaneous toothaches, and pain when you bite. If you suspect you have a cavity it is important to get help sooner than later so that your condition does not progress and cause you more pain.
FILLINGS CAN RESTORE YOUR TEETH
Fillings are a type of restorative dentistry that you may need to treat your cavity. In order to fix your cavity, our dentist will remove the area of decay and then fill it to prevent bacteria from growing, this is why it is called a filling treatment. Complex cavities can require an indirect filling or a temporary filling. If your teeth are too damaged for a normal filling but there is not enough damage for a crown to be necessary, you will need an indirect filling. If you need more than one appointment to fix your cavities or if you are having a root canal procedure, you will need a temporary filling. We believe that fillings are a great option to restore teeth that have cavities but also teeth that have been cracked, worn down, or broken.
FILLINGS ARE MADE OF DURABLE MATERIALS
There are many materials that can be used for your filling, including gold, silver, and resin. The type of filling that you receive will depend on your cavity’s extent, its location, and your insurance. Gold and silver amalgam fillings are the most durable fillings and can last up to 15 years. This material looks out of place in the mouth which is why you may want to choose a different kind of filling. Composite resin fillings are available in white to provide a more natural color but are a little more expensive.
FILLING PROCEDURE
During a filling, our dentist will use a local anesthetic like lidocaine to ease any pain you may feel. The use of a needle for the injection may cause you some initial discomfort, but it will prevent you from feeling any pain from your treatment. After the area is numb, our dentist can remove the areas of decay. In order to do this, we will use a drill, laser, or air abrasion instrument that can wear down your tooth’s enamel. Now, the void must be filled in order to prevent a buildup of bacteria in the area. For the final step, the dentist will polish the treated tooth to make it smooth and shiny. To maintain your cavities, follow good oral hygiene habits: brush and floss your teeth after eating and do not forget your semi-annual checkups at our office.
TREAT YOUR CAVITY NOW
At Cleary Dental, our dentists are experts in restorative dentistry. If you are struggling with a cavity, let us be your trusted care provider for a filling treatment. Call us now to consult with our dental professionals by dialing (856) 428-3050.