5 Essential Insights on Tooth Decay Treatment and Dental Fillings

Dentists strongly encourage everyone to get regular dental exams because tooth decay doesn’t happen overnight. Demineralization takes time to happen. This condition occurs when acidic oral bacteria have broken down the mineral content of dental enamel. Initially, tiny holes form in the tooth as enamel dissolves. Unless tooth decay treatment stops the holes from enlarging, bigger cavities may cause an inner tooth infection and, unfortunately, the need for a root canal.

The dentists at Liberty Dental Associates encourage residents of Libertyville, Illinois, to keep their six-month dental exam appointments. Regular check-ups are essential for identifying early signs of tooth decay, which can often be reversed or halted. The practice offers dental fillings for cavities in tooth-colored shades, allowing for a customized match to your natural teeth. Continue reading to learn more about tooth decay treatment and the process involved in getting a dental filling.

1. Signs That Your Cavity Needs Immediate Attention

If you suspect you have a cavity, it’s important to be aware of the signs that indicate it requires immediate attention. Key symptoms include persistent tooth pain, especially when biting or chewing, which may signify deeper decay. Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods can also point to a cavity that needs urgent care, as it often indicates nerve involvement. Additionally, visible holes or dark spots on your teeth indicate a deteriorating tooth structure. Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth could suggest an infection, making it essential to seek dental care promptly. Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious dental issues, so don’t hesitate to consult a dentist if you experience any of these symptoms.

2. Choice of Dental Fillings

When selecting dental fillings, it’s important to consider safe and biocompatible materials. Options such as resin-based composites or glass ionomers are often preferred to minimize potential toxicity and support overall health. Additionally, it is essential to prioritize not only the physical aspects of dental care but also the emotional comfort of the patient during the treatment process.

3. You Won’t Feel a Thing!

Thanks to modern local anesthetics, getting a dental filling for cavities is virtually painless. You will feel some pressure when the dentist cleans the cavity and inserts the filling. However, the numbing agents dentists use work exceptionally well to desensitize nerve endings during and after the procedure. If you experience discomfort during a tooth filling, the dentist will pause the procedure and administer additional numbing medication to ensure you remain pain-free throughout the treatment.

4. Little to No Recovering Time Needed

Most people return to their usual activities after getting a filling. However, some may experience temporary sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, mild soreness when biting down, or pressure sensitivity. If you have two or more dental fillings during one office visit, you may want to rest a few hours before resuming your daily routine.

5. Dentist Skills Do Matter

A dentist’s experience and expertise positively impact a filling’s durability and appearance. Dentists must ensure that all decay has been removed, create the right cavity shape, and make correct bite adjustments after filling the cavity, if necessary. An improperly placed dental filling could cause further tooth decay, soreness, or tooth loss.

Call Liberty Dental Associates Today to Schedule an Appointment

Ready to take the next step for your dental health? Call Liberty Dental Associates at (847) 349-4306 today to schedule your appointment!

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