Does Your Tooth Need A Filling?

cleveland dental fillings

When you have sensitive teeth or a toothache that doesn’t subside after a day or two, then this could be a sign of a cavity. With a dental filling, we can offer relief from pain and also ensure a lifelike appearance. In today’s blog, your Cleveland, TX, dentist talks about when a tooth needs a composite resin dental filling.

The Causes of Tooth Decay

A cavity means that bacteria has made contact with the inner dentin, the material that makes up most of the tooth structure. This is usually protected from bacteria by the outer enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. But poor oral hygiene habits could lead to plaque buildup that weakens and erodes the enamel and exposes the dentin, as could injury to the tooth. As the decay grows and spreads, this could threaten the risk of an infection and potentially the loss of the tooth. Which is why treating the issue in the earliest stages of decay is so important.

The First Signs of Trouble

How do you know when to seek treatment? If you notice tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, or a toothache that doesn’t subside, then you should let us know right away. Once your tooth hurts, the decay is likely in the later stages and the risk of infection is much higher. However, if you also attend six-month checkup visits, then we can likely identify cavities in the earliest stages of demineralization, so we can treat it before your tooth begins to hurt.

Dental Fillings

Our team will first numb the tooth to keep you comfortable as we remove the decay and clean the tooth. We then add the filling material, a composite resin that we shade to blend with the tooth senselessly. We apply this and then sculpt and shape the tooth as the composite resin cures beneath a special light. The last step is to polish the tooth for a brighter appearance. In one visit, we halt discomfort and protect the tooth from infection or loss.

Preventive Actions

To help avoid the onset of cavities, we suggest brushing and flossing daily to remove food particles that could feed bacteria and cause plaque and tartar buildup. You can also eat items low in sugar and starch, and see us for checkups and cleanings every six months too. If you have any questions about how we treat tooth decay, or about taking preventive actions, then contact our team today.

Talk To Your Cleveland, TX Dentist About Avoiding Cavities

Our team can provide lifelike solutions to serious oral health concerns. For more information about treating tooth decay, then contact your Cleveland, TX, dentist, Dr. Uhrenholdt, by calling (281) 592-1234.