Posted by Alencar Family Dentistry on Apr 22 2020, 06:06 AM
Cavities are caused by bacteria and can damage your tooth structure and even lead to tooth loss. Fillings are a common treatment for cavities, which is why your dentist will nearly always recommend them. This article explains what a cavity is and how a general dentist treats it.
Dental decay caused by bacteria spreads into the tooth and can jeopardize the tooth's structural integrity and reach the inner pulp causing infections. Therefore, it is essential for the dentist to remove the decay to halt its advancement and then fill the cavity to restore the tooth’s integrity.
Fillings prevent germs and bacteria from causing more damage and strengthen the tooth, preventing it from breaking or chipping.
The dentist will first administer anesthesia to ensure your comfort and then proceed to remove the decay from the tooth cavity. Next, the dentist will clean and prepare the cavity for the filling.
The filling is in the form of a paste that is shaped to match the contours of the cavity. Fillings are durable and can last up to 15 years with proper upkeep.
How the filling is placed depends on the material the filling is made from. Fillings can be made from composite, glass ionomer, or silver amalgam. Patients most often choose tooth-colored composite fillings, especially for the front teeth.
The dentist will be able to customize your filling to match the natural color of your teeth so that it completely blends in.
If you worry you may have a cavity, you should schedule a dental appointment with a general dentist as soon as possible. Even if your teeth seem healthy, you should schedule regular dental checkups every six months to ensure you have no cavities that are not yet visible or other dental issues that may develop into more severe problems.
Dr. Jayme A. Oliveira Filho at Alencar Family Dentistry offers comprehensive dental care services to patients in Chesapeake, Virginia. For appointments, call (757) 546-0301 or book online on our website. You can also visit us at 711 Greenbrier Pkwy Suite 101, Chesapeake, VA 23320.
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