When a tooth becomes decayed, treatment is crucial for not only avoiding worsening discomfort, but preventing tooth loss due to infections or abscesses too. Fortunately, your Richfield, MN, dentist can offer treatment with a lifelike tooth-colored dental filling. In today’s blog, we’re looking at how we create and place these restorations in only one sitting.
The Reasons to Prescribe a Filling
If you begin to experience tooth sensitivity or a toothache that doesn’t pass after a few hours and instead seems to grow worse, then you may have a cavity that needs immediate attention. Schedule a visit so we can examine your smile to see if you have any decay present. Remember, attending routine six-month visits means we have a chance to identify potential decay in the earliest stages, before you experience discomfort and before the risk of an infection elevates. If you have a cavity, then we will likely place a filling to treat the tooth and protect it.
Tooth-Colored Composite Resin
Instead of metal, we use a tooth-colored composite resin, which is a blend of glass and acrylic that contains no metal and can be shaded to blend with your smile. We first administer a local anesthetic before removing the decay and cleaning the tooth. We then apply the material in several layers, sculpting the tooth as we cure the composite resin under a light. Finally, we polish the tooth for a more lifelike appearance. In only one visit, we have the chance to restore your smile and avoid the risk of the decay becoming an infection or abscess due to lack of treatment.
Preventive Actions
Did you know that you can take steps to lower your risk of cavities? First, cut back on sugary foods and drinks as these feed harmful bacteria and lead to plaque buildup and weakened outer enamel. Be sure you brush your teeth when you wake up and again before bed for about two minutes each session, using a fluoride toothpaste. You also need to floss up and down each side of every tooth before bed, as this removes the bits of food that could feed bacteria. Make time to see us every six months for a checkup and cleaning as well, and always let us know if a tooth feels sensitive or begins to ache. If you have any questions about avoiding tooth decay, or treating cavities, then please contact our team today.
Talk To Your Richfield, MN Dentist’s Office About Restorative Dentistry
At our Richfield, MN dentist’s office, we want to prevent a cavity from threatening the health and stability of your smile with a lifelike dental filling. To find out more about treating cavities in only one visit, please call Cedar West Family Dentistry at (612) 861-7188.
