If you read our recent blog on restorative dental options, you know that fillings are an effective way to repair your tooth after decay. At Dental Impressions of Ankeny, IA, we want all of our patients to be well-informed about their treatments so that they can feel confident in our office. In today’s blog, we are here to tell you about what a filling is, what you can expect from the procedure, and how to care for yourself after this restoration.
Read more: Restoring Your Smile After CavitiesTooth-Colored Fillings For Confidence And Structure
There are several materials available for your filling. The most popular is composite resin, which matches the color of your tooth. Even though cavities are a very common problem in the United States, most patients prefer a solution that is discreet.
We use this restorative option because cavities can spread deeper into your tooth’s pulp if they are left alone. It is important to stop the process as soon as possible to keep your teeth as healthy as possible.
Removing The Damaged Area
You may already be familiar with cavities and know that they can leave a hole in your smile. When we perform a filling, we will remove the decayed part of the tooth, clean the area, and fill the hole with composite resin. Although this process is minimally invasive, we can offer patients sedation to feel comfortable during the treatment.
If a cavity is left to continue growing, it can reach the pulp of the tooth. This can cause discomfort and sensitivity due to how deep the decay reaches. The only option to repair a tooth after decay has reached this far is a root canal, which is a more invasive treatment.
Caring For Your Smile After Decay
Immediately after getting a tooth filled, be sure to stay away from eating or drinking. We do not want the material to fall out right after. To avoid cavities in the future, there are a few steps that you can take. First, it is important to follow a good oral hygiene routine. On top of brushing your teeth twice a day, be sure that you are flossing as well. Flossing allows you to get debris and food from hard-to-reach areas between the teeth.
You should also visit the dentist twice a year. Even if you feel like you have a healthy smile, exams, and cleanings allow us to catch signs of decay early. In some cases, cavities can be reversed if caught in the early stages. Prevention can help save you from needing other restorative treatments.
Schedule An Appointment Today
Don’t put off fixing tooth decay. For a consultation on your smile’s needs, schedule an appointment with our team by calling Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA at (515) 965-0230 today.
