Cavities can happen even when you do your best to prevent them. Tooth decay and cavities can be caused for reasons other than poor oral hygiene and sweet treats. Teeth grinding, a misaligned bite, and even genetics can cause one person to be more susceptible to tooth decay than another. No matter the reason for a cavity, it is very important for it to be treated as soon as possible. A filling is can treat a cavity, restore a damaged tooth, and prevent further problems. If a damaged, decayed tooth goes untreated, it can become infected, which could require more involved treatment or a dental extraction.
Why Does a Tooth Need Rescue?
Tooth decay is a progressive disease that will worsen and deepen into the tooth; it will not clear up on its own. At the earliest stage of tooth decay, white spots form on the enamel of the teeth. At this early point, your dentist may be able to reverse the decay with a cleaning and stop it from developing further. Once the decay progresses, it create a cavity or a hole formed from acidic attacks to the enamel.The decay will move past the enamel to the dentin and into the inner pulp of the tooth. The inner pulp or inner chamber is where you can find the roots and the nerves of a tooth. At this stage of decay, a root canal treatment may be required to preserve the tooth. If it continues to be left untreated, the tooth can become infected, and may need to be extracted to protect your health. You may not feel a cavity until it reaches he dentin or inner pulp. A filling can stop decay from reaching the inner pulp of your tooth.
How Does a Filling Help?
First, your dentist will provide local anesthesia to the area of the problematic tooth. Once the area is numb, your dentist will fully disinfect inside tooth and remove any damaged parts. A composite bonding material will then be applied to the tooth, shaped, hardened, and polished. The bonding looks and acts like your enamel, so that your tooth can be restored in function and appearance.
A Filling May Be Able to Save Your Tooth
A vulnerable tooth may be saved by a filling. To schedule a consultation by calling E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, and all surrounding communities.