When You Have A Cavity…
What to know about the cavity filling process.
When you visit our office for a dental checkup, of course, you never want to hear the news that you have a cavity. However, it’s not the end of the world. In fact, it’s an excellent opportunity to realize that something is wrong with your brushing or flossing technique and to make the appropriate changes to prevent future problems. When we diagnose the cavity, we’ll probably schedule a follow-up appointment for the treatment to take place. And there’s no need to worry or feel nervous; it’s one of the most common procedures to repair teeth.
At the appointment, you’ll first receive an injection. This step is usually the thing that causes the most discomfort and apprehension for patients, but don’t worry. Our team’s chairside manner will put you at ease, and it will all be over shortly. Then, you’ll be pain-free and ready for treatment!
First, we must prepare the tooth by removing the damaged or decayed material. This step is crucial to make sure we eliminate bacteria so the cavity will no longer grow. Next, we’ll apply the filling material. And nowadays, there are no dark, metallic fillings to worry about. Instead, we use composite, tooth-colored resin to repair your teeth effectively and aesthetically!
If you suspect you have a cavity, don’t delay in seeking treatment. The last thing you want is to wait for the problem to get worse. If a cavity gets bigger, the structural integrity of the tooth is compromised, and it may crack or chip. Furthermore, a tooth that has experienced significant decay may be too damaged for a filling to be effective, requiring more extensive treatments such as a dental crown. These treatments are also more costly, so do yourself a favor and don’t put off your regular dental checkup and cleaning appointments!