Treating Tooth Decay With A Filling

It goes without saying that many people aim for a bright, healthy, and youthful smile. Many people can accomplish this through teeth-whitening and other cosmetic treatment options, but it is important to keep in mind that this is only possible with a strong foundation of oral health, to begin with. Still, when decay and infection come knocking, knowing about your restorative options is a must. In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX family dentist describes our process for treating tooth decay in its early stages and what you can expect from a restorative filling appointment.

How Decay Gets Worse

Decay-causing bacteria are present in every smile, and if they are not properly managed, they will wreak havoc on your oral health. This is why your dentist has you brush twice a day and floss daily at home so as to mitigate the chances for infection to develop. The problem arises, however, when improper hygiene techniques are used, or if a person simply does not follow the recommended routine. In instances such as this, the bacteria level increases exponentially and they begin to damage the healthy structure of your tooth.

When decay-causing bacteria are able to carry on mostly unbothered, the area of the tooth will begin to weaken until a small hole known as a cavity forms. It unfortunately does not stop here, however, as decay will only continue to spread until it has entirely compromised a tooth and spreads to surrounding, previously healthy structures. If treatment is sought in a timely manner, however, all of this can be avoided. To learn more about the spread of decay and its impact on your oral health, do not hesitate to give our team a call.

Mitigating Tooth Infection

When dental prevention fails and your oral health is at risk, restorative dentistry may be used to mitigate the issue and save your natural structures. For patients experiencing a cavity, depending on its stage of progression, your dentist may recommend a dental filling as the ideal treatment option. The goal behind this procedure is to carefully remove the infected portion(s) of your tooth and then fill the open area with a strong dental material to reinforce the tooth. Contact our office today to learn about your restorative dental options.

What to Expect from Your Visit

During your appointment, we will begin by numbing the area appropriately so as to minimize the level of discomfort you may experience. We will then carefully but thoroughly remove traces of infected tissue, then clean and fill the open area with a composite material. This will then be shaped and hardened or cured using a special light. After ensuring the filling has not affected your bite, you are all set!

Keep Your Smile Healthy

Sometimes dental infection can target a tooth, but that does not mean you have to part ways with the natural structure. This is especially true when you seek treatment sooner rather than later. When you are ready to schedule your family’s next appointment, or for more information about restorative dentistry, contact Gentle Smiles Family Dentistry in Dallas, TX at 972-329-7645.