Tooth decay is an issue that can threaten smiles of all ages, from kids to adults. Without treatment to address cavities, there is a real risk of infection and even tooth loss. But we can help with a dental filling! In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dentist talks about our lifelike dental fillings and how in one visit we can protect your smile.
The Causes and Warning Signs of Tooth Decay
First, let’s talk about tooth decay and how this can impact your smile. Cavities form when harmful oral bacteria reach the sensitive inner dentin, the structure that makes up most of your tooth. This happens when the outer enamel is weakened, an issue that can happen due to poor brushing and flossing habits, a diet high in sugar and starch, and even lack of professional cleanings with our team. These factors create plaque and tartar buildup, which coat the teeth and then weaken the enamel, eroding it and exposing the dentin. You could then experience toothaches and sensitivity that grow in severity with time.
Treatment with a Dental Filling
If you encounter pain in your smile on a regular basis, then you need to see our team right away. We will take a close look at your smile with digital x-rays, using 90% less radiation and obtaining clear images immediately on a chairside monitor. We can talk to you about your diagnosis and then plan the filling process in detail. We begin by numbing the tooth to ensure you are comfortable as we remove decay from the tooth. Next, we will prepare the metal-free composite resin material we use in our fillings, shading it to blend with your tooth. We apply this in several layers and sculpt the tooth as the material cures under a light. The last step is to polish the tooth for a brighter appearance. In one visit, we bring relief!
Taking a Preventive Approach
Moving forward, you can take actions to help limit your risk of tooth decay down the road. For example, be sure you brush twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste, and floss every evening before going to bed. Try to cut back on the sugar and starch in your diet, and avoid tobacco products too. Try to see our team every six months for a checkup and a professional cleaning, so we can remove the plaque and tartar that could weaken your enamel.
If you have any questions, contact our team today!
Enjoy Cavity Relief With Dental Impressions
Our team can offer a solution for tooth decay to keep smiles bright and healthy. To find out more about treating cavities in only one visit, call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.
