Cedar Rapids, IA, dentist offers fillings

When left untreated, cavities can create severe problems for your smile. They can deteriorate your enamel and cause sensitivity to the area. When your dentist notices signs of decay, they may recommend that the area be restored with a dental filling. Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA, offers this restoration with natural-appearing composite resin material. In today’s blog, learn when a filling is necessary and how it can restore your pearly whites.

Preventing Cavities With Proper Oral Hygiene

Although your dental structures can be restored after decay, it is still important to practice prevention. At home, you should be brushing and flossing twice a day. Do not forget to brush your tongue, too, as it can hold bacteria. Along with your at-home oral hygiene care, you should also visit your dentist twice a year for a checkup. These visits can help detect problems, such as decay, early. During your visit, your teeth will be cleaned and examined for signs of concern. The cleaning can help remove plaque buildup that your toothbrush can not clean. Then, during the examination, X-rays may be taken for a closer look at your smile. If your dentist notices any signs of decay or a fully formed cavity, they will create a treatment plan to restore the area.

When Is A Filling Necessary?

Dental fillings may be recommended when a cavity has formed on your tooth. This is a small hole that is created after decay has worn down your tooth. You may notice a cavity because the area may be more sensitive, and there may be a change in texture, or color to the area. Along with these signs, your dentist will be able to see signs of a carie during your biannual checkup.

Before getting the cavity filled, you may be given sedation, or the area may be numbed. Then, the damaged part of the tooth will be removed using a gentle drill. The space will be cleaned, and then composite resin will be added. This material is used instead of silver amalgam because it can appear natural and is highly durable.

Root Canal Treatment Can Restore Your Tooth

If the cavity is more severe, a filling may not be able to repair your tooth. Instead, root canal treatment may be necessary. During this process, the decayed pulp is taken out and filled with a stronger material. This can help relieve discomfort and save your tooth from severe damage. The alternative to having root canal treatment may be having the structure removed entirely to relieve pain and prevent further damage to your oral cavity.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you have a cavity, get this restored as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment with our team, Call Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA today at (319) 364-7108.