Why Do I Need a Filling?
December 13, 2017
You probably do your best to take care of your teeth; you brush and floss twice a day, you mind your sweets, and you visit your dentist for regular exams. Despite your excellent care, you may still find yourself with a cavity. The causes usually lead back to a lax in hygiene or routine, but things like grinding your teeth or misalignment can lead to cavities. A cavity is formed once tooth decay has eroded away part of your enamel to create a small hole. In this stage of tooth decay, a filling can stop it from spreading deeper inside your tooth.
The Dangers of Tooth Decay
In the earliest stage of tooth decay, which may appear as white spots on the tooth’s enamel, the decay could be reversed with a cleaning and improved hygiene. Decay in this early stage and even at the stage of a cavity may not give you any pain to notice. This makes it incredibly important to maintain regular check-ups with your dentist to allow for your dentist to identify tooth decay. Once the enamel of a tooth begins to erode, their is no way to reverse it. If left untreated, the decay will reach the dentin, the next layer just beneath the enamel. Without treatment from a filling, the decay can deepen into the inner pulp, where a filling may no longer be enough treatment. A root canal treatment will be required to remove the infection from the inner areas of the tooth. Without treatment at this stage, an abscess infection can form at the tip of the root near the bone. To prevent harm to the rest of your teeth or your body, the infected tooth may need to be extracted at this stage.
What Is a Filling?
A filling is a treatment of tooth decay when it has affected your enamel and dentin. Your dentist will completely disinfect the tooth and remove any damaged areas. The tooth will then be restored with a composite resin bonding material to protect it from damage and decay.
A Filling Can Rescue Your Tooth
Early treatment like a filling can save your tooth. To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.