Ankeny, IA, dentist offers fillings to restore smile after cavity

Can Your Tooth Be Repaired After A Cavity?

If you have ever had a cavity, you are not alone. This is one of the most common problems that dental patients experience. When this happens, the outer layer of your tooth is worn down and a space is created. While this outer layer cannot be regrown, there are ways to restore the area that can protect your smile. The team at Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, offers natural-like dental fillings that can protect and restrengthen the area.

Read more: Can Your Tooth Be Repaired After A Cavity?

Helping You Prevent Cavities

Dental decay is a common problem that affects many patients. However, it can be prevented with proper oral hygiene and healthy lifestyle choices. To reduce the chances of developing cavities, make sure that you brush and floss at least twice a day. This can help rid of food particles throughout the day. If you are a frequent snacker, try to drink water throughout the day to rid of bacteria as well. As a general rule, you should also see your dentist at least twice a year for a checkup. These visits include a cleaning and examination which can help detect early signs of decay before they become serious. Some patients may need to visit the dentist more frequently if you have several oral health concerns.

Fillings Help Protect And Restore The Area

Cavities form when your enamel is worn down. This may cause sensitivity, discoloration, or persistent bad breath. Your dentist may be able to see this during your cleaning or examination. When it is detected, they will likely recommend having it restored with a filling. This is a minimally invasive process that involves removing the decayed part, cleaning the area, and adding a stronger material to the area. This helps prevent the cavity from worsening and protects the area from bacteria entering the space. We use composite resin for this process because it will match the shade of your tooth and is durable.

Do Not Put Off A Filling

Fillings should be done as soon as possible to prevent the cavity from worsening. If you put off this restoration, it may lead to worsening symptoms that may include a severe toothache or discoloration to the area. In cases of severe decay, root canal treatment may be necessary. This procedure is more extensive than a filling because the pulp of the tooth will need to be reached. If the tooth cannot be restored, an extraction may be necessary to save your smile. This is often the last resolution because you will need to replace the tooth that has been removed which can cost you a lot of time and money.

Schedule A Restoration With Our Team

Call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA at (515) 965-0230 to schedule an appointment for a filling or other restorations.