If you have an ache in your tooth, this could potentially be due to a cavity. Once your tooth reaches a stage of decay where it hurts, then you need to seek treatment. In today’s blog, your Richfield, MN, dentist talks about how we address aching teeth with a dental filling.
The Link Between Toothaches and Cavities
A cavity occurs when harmful oral bacteria reach the sensitive inner tissues, the dentin that makes up most of the tooth. This happens when the outer enamel is compromised, which could happen due to factors like plaque buildup, brought on by poor brushing and flossing habits, and a diet high in sugar. You could also develop cavities due to damage from an injury or even teeth grinding.
When your tooth begins to hurt, this means the decay has a reached a more advanced stage, and treatment is crucial to avoid an infection. With a filling, we can halt the pain in the tooth and prevent an infection or tooth loss from occurring down the road.
Dental Fillings
Instead of metal, our team will make a dental filling from a composite resin material that blends glass-like and acrylic materials. This is a biocompatible and bonds with the tooth. We can also shade the material to ensure a lifelike appearance. The placement process only takes one visit. Our team will numb the tooth, remove decay, and then clean it thoroughly. We apply the material in several layers, and then sculpt and mold the tooth as the material cures under a light. Finally, we will polish the tooth for a bright and attractive appearance.
When Do You Need a Crown?
What if you have tooth decay too serve for a filling? We can still restore the tooth and stop discomfort, only this time we may use a crown. Again, made from lifelike materials, this will blend with your smile. But instead of treating a portion of the tooth, we will cap it with a dental crown. The crown covers the visible portion of the tooth, so we can address more severe decay or injury. If you have an infection, we could remove the tissues from within the tooth and then cap it with a crown, a procedure known as a root canal.
If you have any questions about how we treat decay in a tooth, or about our lifelike fillings and crowns, then please reach out to our team today to learn more. We want to help restore your tooth and keep your smile stunning!
Schedule Your Visit for Restorative Dentistry
We want to help you enjoy a healthy and comfortable smile by treating your cavities. To learn more about restorative dentistry, call Cedar West Dental in Richfield, MN, today at 612) 861-7188.
