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Many patients often develop a sense of dread or worry before dentist appointments when they haven’t visited in some time. They worry that they dentist is going to find a cavity, and they’ll need treatment for said cavity. If you haven’t visited the dentist in a few years and your home care routine (brushing and flossing) isn’t as consistent as it could be, you very well may have developed cavities due to tooth decay. However, avoiding treatment for cavities is the wrong decision. Trust your dentist, cavities can actually get much worse if you let them.

Cavities Are Only the Beginning of Tooth Decay Worries

There are bacteria coating the surfaces of your teeth nearly all the time. Failing to disrupt these bacteria films (plaque) allows them to grow and produce acid, a byproduct of metabolism. This acid eats away at the enamel of your tooth, and that’s how your cavity is formed. Failing to treat a cavity means more decay. Your cavity will worsen, and it may spread to the roots of your tooth, or to your gums. This can lead to the need for root canal therapy or a deep cleaning. If your tooth becomes too weak from the extensive decay, you could even lose the tooth.

Dental Fillings Repair Cavities and Fortify Your Tooth

The first step to recovering from a cavity is removal of the bacteria. Your dentist will carefully remove the bacterial buildup (which causes the dark spot on your tooth) and clean your tooth. Then, your dentist will place your filling — using metal, dental porcelain, or dental resin. The filling replaces the structure that has been worn away by bacteria and allows your tooth to return to its previous appearance and strength. Without a filling, your problems will only compound over time.

Cedar Dental Creates Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings for Patients

Based on your particular tooth and the extent of your cavity, your dentist may choose from a number of filling materials. In many cases, dental resin or porcelain can be used to match the appearance of your original tooth so that your filling doesn’t stand out. Cedar Dental provides patients with tooth-colored fillings to help you recover fully from cavities. Schedule your appointment for a checkup or specific service by contacting Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA at 319-364-7108.