A cavity occurs when harmful bacteria can bypass the outer enamel, either via poor oral hygiene or injury, and reach the more sensitive layers of dentin. Without treatment, tooth decay continues to grow and expand, eventually increasing the risk of an infection. How do you treat cavities? What warning signs should we be aware of?
Warning Signs of Tooth Decay
In the early stages of tooth decay, you may encounter sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. As the issue progresses, you may encounter a toothache that doesn’t subside and can actually worsen with time. Don’t ignore any discomfort in your smile. Contact your dentist for an exam and diagnosis. The doctor can see if you need treatment for a cavity. Remember, if you avoid addressing decay in the early stages you can develop a greater risk of infection or abscess, threatening the stability of your tooth and the health of your smile.
Dental Fillings
We use composite resin to create our fillings. While metal fillings do address cavities, they can pose a problem for people with metal allergies and can expand with time, eventually increasing the risk of future decay. Composite resin can be shaded to blend with your tooth. We can place it in one visit and protect your smile from further decay or discomfort. We often recommend this option for minor cavities.
Dental Crowns
If you have severe decay or possibly an infection, then a crown may be necessary. A crown fits over the entire tooth structure, protecting it from further damage. We use a variety of materials, including porcelain, a strong, lifelike, and stain-resistant material. If your tooth is infected, then we will perform a root canal before placing the crown. If you have any questions about addressing tooth decay or about our lifelike dental restorations, then please contact our office today.
