Tooth decay and cavity development can do serious harm to your oral health when not treated swiftly. Your dentist recommends following a stringent schedule of brushing your teeth twice and flossing each day to remove the plaque that contributes to these problems, yet patients who follow their dentist’s instructions can still suffer this common dental issue. Attending routine examination and cleanings allows your Ankeny, IA dentist to detect and treat cavities in a timely manner and provide key restorative work to improve the health of your smile.
What Causes Tooth Decay?
Cavities are the result of permanent damage to the outer surface of your tooth that allows bacteria to infect the material that resides beneath the enamel. Plaque deposits feed bacteria which produce acid and wear away at the tooth when you fail to regularly brush and floss. Chronically grinding your teeth can also physically destroy the enamel and expose your inner tooth to bacterial infection. Meet with your dentist regularly to have them examine your teeth for the signs of plaque buildup or physical wear and tear.
Treatment With Dental Fillings
Various solutions are available for damage from tooth decay and your dentist will select the most conservative approach to address your problem. Most frequently, a cavity can be treated with a dental filling. They will numb your tooth, remove all decayed tissue, and then place the filling material. The dentist will recommend a material based upon review of your tooth and what kind of support it needs. Metal amalgam is often selected for your molars because it is able to withstand intense pressure. Acrylic based fillings allow the dentist to match the shade of your teeth. Once placed, the filling prevents you against further damage and developing new problems.
Treatment With Dental Crowns
When tooth decay is too severe to be treated with a dental filling, your dentist can recommend a dental crown. Crowns differ from fillings by completely covering the surface of your tooth above the gumline. This restoration improves structural function and can mimic the appearance of the original tooth. This treatment is often offered for deep cavities and severe tooth cracks.
Contact Your Ankeny, IA Dentist To Examine Your Mouth For Signs of Tooth Decay!
Routine checkups and cleanings are vital to maintaining proper oral health. Without examination from your dental team, tooth decay can progress to severe stages. You may not feel any pain for months while cavities develop. Our practice is here to treat any existing problems and provide advice for preserving your health year-round. For more information and to schedule your next appointment, please contact our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office at 515-207-6182. We serve patients from the surrounding communities of Alleman, Elkhart, and Bondurant as well.
