If you have tooth decay, this could cause serious discomfort and increase the risk of an infection or abscess, causing further pain down the road. Fortunately, we have a discreet and metal-free solution with our composite resin dental fillings! In today’s blog, your Olathe, KS, dentist will look at how we repair cavities in one visit.
The Causes of Cavities
Each of our teeth is coated in a thin layer of enamel, the hardest substance in the entire human body. The material helps protect the sensitive inner tissues, the dentin and the pulp, from exposure to harmful bacteria. However, when the enamel erodes due to demineralization or becomes damaged due to injury, this could mean the onset of a cavity as bacteria reaches the inner dentin. Once the bacteria make contact with the pulp this could mean tooth sensitivity and toothaches, even leading to infection with time! With an infected tooth comes the risk of losing the tooth altogether.
Preventing Cavities
To prevent a cavity, you need to take steps to protect the smile from bacteria. When we brush and floss our teeth, we remove the bits of food that feed harmful bacteria. You should brush when you wake up and again before bed, for at least two minutes and using a fluoride toothpaste. You also need to floss prior to bedtime every evening too, as this reaches what a toothbrush’s bristles cannot. We also suggested depriving bacteria of a meal by cutting back on sugary foods and drinks. A visit every six months is also essential. A checkup is a chance to catch cavities in the earliest stages, even before you experience a toothache! A cleaning then helps by removing all plaque and tartar, preventing the erosion of enamel that could otherwise develop and lead to tooth decay.
A Discreet, Lifelike Filling
If you already have a cavity, we can restore the tooth with a discreet filling made from metal-free composite resin. A blend of glass and acrylic, this material can be shaded to blend with the rest of your tooth structure. We start by preparing the material and removing decay from the tooth. We clean the tooth, dry it, and apply the material. We then sculpt the tooth as we cure the composite resin under a light. Finally, we polish the tooth for a brighter appearance, repairing a cavity in only one visit! If you have any questions, give us a call!
Do You Have Questions About Cosmetic Restorations?
Our team is ready to treat decay and restore the health and beauty of your smile. For more information on repairing cavities or to schedule a dental consultation, call E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, and all surrounding communities.