At one time, treating a cavity meant you received a metal restoration. However, your Newhall, CA, dentist provides a more lifelike solution for cavities with our composite resin dental fillings. In today’s blog, we’re looking at how we create and place these biocompatible and lifelike restorations, and what you can do to avoid cavities.
The Dangers of Avoiding Cavity Treatment
A cavity forms when the outer layer of enamel is compromised, allowing harmful bacteria to reach the more sensitive dentin beneath. Once a cavity forms, it grows more severe with time unless treated. Eventually, the cavity could reach the inner pulp, your tooth’s nerve center. At this point, an infection arises that causes more substantial discomfort and even increases the risk of an eventual lost tooth. If you begin to experience toothaches or tooth sensitivity, then contact our team right away. Be sure to attend your six months checkup and cleaning visits too, so we can monitor the health of your smile.
Creating a Lifelike Dental Filling
If we find you have a cavity, then we will prepare the composite resin material. Next, we remove the decay and then thoroughly clean the tooth. We apply the material to the tooth and then reshape the tooth as we cure the composite resin under a light. The composite resin can be shaded to blend with your smile and ensure a lifelike appearance. The final step involves polishing your tooth to ensure a more natural appearance. The entire process only takes one visit to complete, so you leave with a healthy, comfortable smile and a restoration that looks natural.
Keeping Smiles Free of Tooth Decay
What steps can you take to prevent future cases of tooth decay? First, make time each day to brush for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste, once when you wake up and then again before going to bed. Be sure to floss each night before bed too! Cutting back on sugary foods and drinks can help prevent plaque buildup and enamel erosion, lowering the risk of tooth decay. Finally, be sure you see us for an exam and cleaning every six months. The checkup allows us to watch for the earliest signs of decay, often offering treatment before you experience discomfort. A cleaning then removes all plaque and tartar from the tooth to decrease the risk of cavities, as well as gum disease, teeth stains, and even bad breath.
Do You Have Questions About Restorative Dental Care?
Our team is ready to provide a natural-looking treatment for dental cavities and other restorative issues. To learn more about treating cavities and other oral health concerns, then please schedule a consultation by calling Newhall Dental Arts in Newhall, CA, today at (661) 259-7760.