When a cavity forms in our smile, this could cause a tooth to hurt and unless treated, develop a painful infection that could threaten the stability of your smile. In order to treat a cavity, we may place a lifelike filling created from a metal-free material. In today’s blog, your Tucson, AZ, dentist is talking about how we treat cavities and safeguard smiles.
The Causes of Tooth Decay
The enamel coating our teeth is the hardest substance in the human body. This layer protects the sensitive inner layers of dentin, and the pulp, from bacteria. Otherwise, a cavity forms or the tooth could become infected. Unfortunately, when the tooth is cracked or chipped, or the enamel eroded due to poor oral hygiene, then the dentin is exposed and a cavity forms. Treatment is then crucial, otherwise, the cavity spreads until the pulp, the tooth’s nerve center, is exposed to bacteria and a painful infection develops that threatens the stability of the tooth.
Placing a Lifelike Dental Filling
If you notice sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, or a toothache that grows more severe with time, then please let us know. We’re still providing emergency treatment for our community, so we can identify the cause of your pain and offer treatment. If we discover a cavity, we may remove the decayed portions and then clean the tooth. Next, we prepare the composite resin filling material and apply it to the tooth. A metal-free blend of glass and acrylic, composite resin is strong and durable, and can be shaded to blend with the tooth. We shape the material as we cure the composite reins under a light. The final step involves polishing the tooth for a more lifelike appearance. In one visit we halt the decay and protect your smile.
Keeping Your Smile Free of Cavities
To limit your risk of developing tooth decay at home, you need to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. First, be sure you brush your teeth when you wake up and again at night for two minutes each night. Make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride! You also need to floss every night before bed, moving the tape up and down each side of every tooth when you do. Cutting back on sugary foods and drinks could also benefit your smile’s health and function. If you have any questions about treating cavities, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Restorative Dentistry?
At our Tucson, AZ, dentist’s office, we want to treat common issues that could potentially lead to serious complications. If you have questions about addressing serious concerns and protecting the health of your smile, contact us today to schedule a visit by calling our office at 520-296-5439.