Do you have a toothache? Are you feeling discomfort when you eat or drink something cold or hot? Or, did you visit your Fairview dentist and was told that you have your first cavity? No matter how you find out that you have cavities, cavities are some of the most common oral health concerns. Cavities affect people of all ages, so even if you avoided getting cavities as a child, you could still get a cavity as an adult.
In the event you do experience a cavity, here are some of the causes of why you might get a dental cavity and how your general dentist near you can help treat it.
We all know about cavities, but what are they? Cavities are essentially holes caused by acid that can occur in baby teeth or permanent teeth (adult teeth). This acid is created through the bacteria that are found in your mouth. When the acid is left on your teeth, it attacks the outer surface of the tooth enamel and over time, the acid wears down the teeth, causing a cavity.
For older adults, they are at greater risk of developing tooth-root decay. As our gums recede, the roots of the teeth are at risk of exposure to plaque. Cavities should not be ignored as it will not go away on it’s own unless taken care of by a dentist. When the affected tooth is left untreated, cavities can cause more problems such as:
If you suspect that you have a cavity, you’re probably experiencing some of these symptoms.
If you’ve never had a cavity filled before, the dental treatment to repair the tooth is straightforward and can be performed in one short visit. Your Fairview dentist will numb your tooth and the neighboring areas with a local anesthetic during your visit, so you don’t feel the procedure. Your dentist may suggest sedation dentistry for individuals who have dental anxiety, such as nitrous oxide, more commonly known as laughing gas.
Once numb, your dentist will isolate the tooth and keep it dry to reduce the risk of infection. Surgical tools will be used to remove any plaque in the area, along with any decayed material from the tooth. When the decay is no longer visible, your tooth will be prepped for filling. Once your dentist has prepped the tooth, the filling material (composite material) will be applied, and a curing light will be used so that the filling material will bond with your teeth. The dentist will then make sure your new filling isn’t affecting your alignment and bite. When everything looks good as new, the dentist will then polish the filling until it is smooth enough to match the surface of your other teeth.
There are many ways you can prevent future cavities from forming. Here are some of the best ways to protect yourself against cavities and more serious tooth decay issues.
One way to protect your smile is with sealants. They are a thin layer of tooth-colored resin that goes over the smooth surface of your teeth that helps strengthen tooth enamel. Getting sealants applied is quick and easy and makes a big difference that can help prevent tooth decay for up to ten years with proper dental oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing.
Cavities are a common dental problem that affects adults and children alike. They start as small fillings, but they can cause tooth decay and other serious problems if left untreated. As soon as you notice tooth sensitivity, pain, discomfort or signs of cavities in your teeth, call your Fairview dentist as soon as possible to have it get checked out, and avoid invasive treatments.
Our goal at Sloan Creek Dental is to provide our patients with healthy teeth and picture-perfect smiles. Dr. Feng and the team at Sloan Creek Dental are your best resources for dental restorations with your comfort and care in mind. We combine modern techniques, comprehensive examination, precise diagnosis, and long-lasting results to deliver exactly what you need.
To learn more about your options for effective treatment of dental caries or dental fillings, contact us at our Fairview, TX office to schedule an appointment with us today – 972-468-1440
Our dental office is located in Fairview, Texas, and our patients visit us from across the surrounding areas, including Allen, Plano, McKinney, and Lucas.
