How long does treating a dental cavity take? Well, your Garland, TX, dentist can actually offer a lifelike filling in just one visit! In today’s blog, we’re going to look at what causes tooth decay and when you should see our team for a filling. We’re also going to discuss possible preventive actions as well.
How Does a Cavity Form?
The outermost layer of tooth structure, known as your enamel, is made up of the hardest substance in the human body and can help protect the sensitive inner structure from harmful bacteria. However, should a tooth become cracked, chipped, or worn down due to teeth grinding, this could expose the inner dentin to bacteria and allow a cavity to form. In addition, poor oral hygiene could allow plaque buildup to accumulate on the surfaces of the teeth, which eventually weakens and erodes enamel to increase the risk of cavities.
Placing a Filling to Prevent Infections
Unless treated, a cavity will continue to grow and spread throughout the tooth structure. Eventually, the inner pulp could come into contact with bacteria, which enables an infection to form, one that could threaten the tooth’s stability. To prevent this, we suggest placing a filling. The process involves removing decay and cleaning the tooth. Next, we apply the composite resin in several layers and then cure it with a light. The material will be shaded to match the color of the surrounding tooth structure. Finally, we polish the tooth for a more lifelike appearance. In one visit, the filling procedures a lifelike solution to decay and discomfort, and prevents an infection from forming!
Avoiding Tooth Decay
When we feed harmful bacteria, this allows it to coat the teeth in plaque and weaken tooth enamel. But when we brush our teeth twice daily and floss before bed, we remove food particles and deprive these harmful agents a meal, which helps protect the teeth. Avoiding sugary food and drinks is also beneficial, as is seeing our team for a cleaning every six months so we can remove all plaque and tartar that has accumulated, something brushing and flossing alone cannot do. If you have any questions about treating a cavity in one visit with a natural-looking filling, or if you have a painful toothache or sensitive teeth, then please let us know. We want to help you enjoy optimal oral health!
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT DENTAL RESTORATIONS?
For those with cavities or aching teeth, a restoration can provide a lifelike appearance and improved oral health. To learn more about our restorative treatment options, then schedule a consultation by calling Mai Dentistry in Garland, TX, today at 972-530-0552. For our patients who don’t speak English, our office is fluent in both Spanish and Vietnamese.
