When you have an aching tooth, this could be a potential warning sign of a cavity. Which means you should see us for treatment, so your cavity doesn’t become an infection. In today’s blog, your Astoria, NY, dentist talks about how our fillings can offer cavity treatments in only one visit!
The Causes of a Cavity (and the Warning Signs)
Tooth decay is a common but serious issue that can impact smiles of all ages. Essentially, this means that harmful oral bacteria have made contact with the inner dentin, the structure that makes up most of your tooth. Typically, the enamel prevents this from happening, but poor oral hygiene, teeth grinding, or injury could weaken and erode the enamel, allowing bacteria to access the dentin. The tooth begins to hurt, and over time, the cavity will continue to grow and spread unless treated. When you have tooth sensitivity during meals, or a toothache that doesn’t subside after a day or two, then you should see our team right away for treatment. Don’t ignore this discomfort and risk an infected tooth!
The Benefits of Composite Resin
While metal fillings are effective, we often opt for a more lifelike and biocompatible option, one that bonds with the tooth. Composite resin contains zero metal and is safe for all ages. The material blends glass-like and acrylic-like particles to create a durable and lifelike material. In fact, we also use this in our dental bonding procedures to mask common cosmetic concerns, so we can help your smile shine.
Placing Your Dental Filling
We will begin by assessing the cause and severity of the decay, and planning the treatment in detail. Next, we will numb your tooth so you’re comfortable as we remove decay from the tooth and prepare it for the filling placement. We shade the composite resin and apply it in several layers, shaping the tooth as the material is cured beneath a slight. The last step is to polish it for a brighter appearance. The filling placement takes one sitting and helps prevent infection, so you avoid discomfort and enjoy lifelike results.
Moving forward, you can lower your risk of cavities with regular checkups and cleanings every six months, combined with better brushing and flossing habits at home. Lowering your sugar consumption is helpful too! If you have any questions about how we can diagnose and treat issues like tooth decay, or about our lifelike filling and bonding treatments, then contact our team today to learn more.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR A DENTAL RESTORATION
Our team wants to help you enjoy good oral health and avoid the complications of an untreated cavity! You can schedule an appointment by calling our office in Astoria, NY at 718-728-8320. We want to ensure you enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.
