When a cavity forms, this could weaken the tooth and without treatment, could lead to the onset of an infected tooth. Which is why we want to treat it with a dental filling. The restoration is not only lifelike, but could last for years to come and bring relief. In today’s blog, your Richfield, MN, dentist talks about the benefits of a filling.
The Dangers of Tooth Decay
Each of our teeth is coated in a protective layer of tooth enamel which protects them from injury and expose to harmful bacteria. But a cavity does when the enamel has been compromised, either weakening and eroding due to poor oral hygiene, or being weakened by teeth grinding or injury. When the enamel is compromised, the sensitive inner structure is then exposed to bacteria. This allows a cavity to form, which can grow with time and eventually leads to an infected tooth. Which is why treatment is so crucial!
Composite Resin
While metal is effective, we opt for a metal-free option, making our dental restorations safe for kids, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with metal allergies. The filling material is a blend of glass-like and acrylic materials, which we can shade to blend with the surrounding tooth structure. The material can last for years to come and prevents the onset of an infection, and instantly halts the painful symptoms of a cavity, such as sensitive teeth and toothaches. The placement process only takes one visit too!
Placing Dental Fillings
We begin by administering a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable during the treatment process. We then gently remove all decay and clean the tooth. The composite resin is then prepared and applied in several layers. As we sculpt and mold the tooth, the material is cured under a light. Finally, we polish the tooth for a brighter appearance. In one sitting, we treat your cavity and prevent the onset of an infection.
To help lower the risk of cavities in the future, be sure you see us for an exam and cleaning every six months. The exam lets us identify areas of concern early, before you even experience discomfort. We then clean the tooth, removing the plaque and tartar that threatens your tooth. At home, be sure you brush and floss daily, and try to cut back on sugary foods and drinks too. If you have any questions, then give us a call today.
Do You Have Any Questions About Restorative Dentistry?
We would like to help you maintain good oral health and avoid the onset of dental infections. If you have any questions about how we restore a decayed tooth, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, contact your Richfield, MN, dentist, Dr. Keller, by calling (612) 861-7188.
