Many people avoid visits to the general dentist because they are afraid of what might be found on their teeth. Cavities are one of the most common dental issues, and the dental professional will usually recommend getting dental fillings. In this article, you will learn what a cavity is and how the dentist fixes the issue. Hopefully, the information provided will help ease your mind about the process.
A dental cavity is a hole caused by the activities of bacteria on the tooth, which can also create an infection. Severe tooth cavities and infection can damage the tooth and result in tooth loss. Therefore, the dentist needs to remove the decay and restore the tooth as soon as possible.
As tooth decay progresses deep into the tooth, it usually causes tooth sensitivity. The cavity will reach down until it exposes the inner nerves and compromises the structural integrity of the teeth. Tooth infection and inflammation will occur eventually. Therefore, the dentist will need to remove decay to stop its progression, but the hole is still there to be filled.
Tooth fillings prevent bacteria and plaque from accumulating inside the cavity and causing further decay. It will also boost the strength of the tooth to prevent cracking and chipping. The dental professional will recommend fixing cavities once they are detected.
During the dental filling procedure, the dentist will remove the decay in the tooth cavity with a drill. First, a local anesthetic will be used to numb the area around the decayed tooth or teeth. This will make the process much more comfortable. After removing the decay, the dentist will clean and prepare the hole for a filling. The technique used for the filling procedure depends on the filling material, whether composite, glass ionomer or silver amalgam fillings. Tooth-colored composite fillings are more commonly used for filling cavities.
Composite fillings are customizable to match the color of the natural teeth to produce aesthetic-appealing results. They are durable and can survive up to 15 years of use with adequate hygiene and care. They are available in paste form, which is inserted into the cavity. The paste takes the shape of the cavity.
The dentist will shape the composite resin over the tooth, preventing a change in bite. The composite resin is hardened with bright ultraviolet light. Filling a decayed tooth is a straightforward process and usually completed in a single appointment.
Amalgam fillings are generally avoided because they are not as natural-looking as composite, although they are durable and easier to place than metal fillings. These fillings stand out on the teeth and are often noticeable if used for front teeth.
If you suspect that you have a cavity, you need to contact the dental office immediately to set up an appointment with the general dentist. Patients are usually encouraged to visit the office every six months for routine dental checkup and cleaning. These appointments, coupled with regular oral hygiene, can help prevent cavities.
Request an appointment here: https://dentistlindennj.com or call AC Dental of Linden at (908) 905-0747 for an appointment in our Linden office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Linden, NJ.
Learning how to prevent cavities from a general dentist is smart. General dentists understand everything there is to know about how to take care of your mouth and are a great source of dental information. Whether you think you already have a cavity or want to make a preventive appointment to avoid getting a cavity…
When you visit the dentist for a checkup, they may suggest fluoride treatment and the use of fluoride toothpaste. Both children and adults can get a fluoride treatment, and the aim is to remineralize the teeth and inhibit the creation of acids by bacteria. For children, small doses of fluoride are essential during the development…
General dentistry focuses on diagnosing, managing and treating dental and oral health problems. Additionally, general dentists administer routine care so that patients can maintain good oral health. Routine care does include preventive treatments, which can help patients avoid cavities, infections or injuries.Preventive general dentistry treatments can be very beneficial long-term. They allow patients of all…
Toothaches are extremely unpleasant and can make eating difficult and painful, but fortunately there are many beneficial treatments in general dentistry. Before deciding on a treatment option for toothache pain, it is helpful to understand more about toothaches. The sensation can be dull, sharp or throbbing. Toothaches can be sensitive to temperature, pressure or texture…
Regular, preventive dental procedures from a family dentist are key to preventing oral diseases, maintaining healthy oral health, protecting your teeth from pain, and ensuring your smile can last a lifetime. Preventive dental procedures allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and locate any minor issues before they become painful, expensive issues that can…
Today, with increasing importance placed on dental aesthetics, there are many reasons why one may consider a trip to the cosmetic dentist. The desire for good-looking teeth is important as beautiful smiles are known to contribute to a person's overall well-being and positive self-image. There are many different avenues for fixing an imperfect smile. In…