If you hear the dreaded words, you have a cavity; there is some good news. While it is not ideal to hear, treatments have come a long way in the dental world. It is best to get them taken care of immediately, so they do not go deeper into your tooth. Fortunately, with dental fillings, your treatment can happen quickly and effectively with little discomfort.
A cavity, or dental caries, is a damaged area of a tooth that results in a small opening. This is not uncommon and is usually the result of bacteria from plaque. Plaque builds up easily, especially with certain foods. Things like sugary drinks, milk, chips, and hard candies are more likely to stick to the teeth for a longer period of time, therefore increasing the likelihood of tooth decay and cavities.
There are a few other factors that can come into play and contribute to the possibility of decay. For example, back teeth (like molars) are more challenging to reach when brushing and can therefore be more easily missed during at-home cleanings. Saliva and drinking water help rinse the mouth of particles, so those with dry mouth may also experience more dental issues. Medical conditions like heartburn or eating disorders produce more acid in the body, which can eat away at the enamel in the teeth, causing them to be more brittle or susceptible to bacteria.
If an individual has a hole in their tooth or bacteria, they will often experience toothaches, sensitivities, pain when eating, or stains on their teeth. The holes may be visible and may also be particularly vulnerable to extreme temperatures.
If the dentist believes the patient needs a dental filling for one or more teeth, they will proceed with the procedure. This repairs any cracks, chips, or broken areas of the tooth, ‘filling’ the missing area. The dentist will use an anesthetic to numb the affected area. Typically, this will only numb the section of the mouth where the treatment is needed. The patient may feel a pinch from the anesthetic, but it numbs them quickly, leaving them with little to no pain.
Next, a drill or laser will remove any areas of the tooth. The dental provider will poke around occasionally to ensure they have removed all the decay. Then, the dentist will insert the filling material with physical tools or lasers that are set with a special light. Finally, they will smooth out the material and ask the patient to feel the spot with their tongue to be comfortable and natural when speaking and chewing food.
If you believe you may have a cavity, schedule an appointment at our Corona office to determine whether you need a dental filling. Catching the decay in its early stages is pivotal to being pain-free and stopping further damage. Reach out today to start the process toward a healthier smile.
Request an appointment here: https://coronafriendsdental.com or call Friends Family Dental & Braces Corona NY at (718) 578-4927 for an appointment in our Corona office.
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