When your dentist recommends you for a cavity filling treatment, you might think about the discomfort and pain that comes with a dental procedure. If that’s the case, it can mean that you don’t know much about the treatment and procedure, which is why you believe some of these common misconceptions. If you want to be well-informed before your cavity filling procedure, then you have come to the right place.
What Is Cavity
First, a cavity is a hole in your teeth that is commonly caused by tooth decay. This cavity contains the bacteria that created the decay, which means it’s essential to have it checked right away. If you delay this for a long period, the bacteria will spread and damage the tooth.
What To Expect During The Procedure
During the procedure, your dentist will clean away the decay inside the cavity using a drill. Don’t worry; this is not a painful process. After this, they will start to fill it with the filling.
Your dentist will numb the decayed tooth through local anesthetic, which will also numb the gums and jaw around the teeth. Once it’s numb, your dentist will remove the decay using the dental drill.
Most of the cavity fillings used today are made from composite resin, while some dentists still use silver amalgam and glass ionomer fillings. These fillings replace the tooth area that has been destroyed by the decay, and it will be molded to match the shape of the surrounding tooth.
Once done, the filling will “fill the hole” and restore the strength and integrity of the decayed tooth. This will also help prevent bacteria from re-entering the area.
How To Take Care Of It
After the procedure, you will need to think about its long-term care so that you won’t have to go back to the dentist due to issues with your fillings. Keep in mind that you will experience sensitivity and pain after the treatment, but it will subside after some time.
However, if you notice signs of wear and tear on the tooth fillings, have your dentist address it right away. Putting it off will cause the tooth to crack, which will require additional (and potentially more intensive) repair, which will cost you more money as well.
In the case that tooth decay develops around a filling, your dentist will repair it with a crown or a second cavity filling.
This is why you must always take care of your teeth by following proper dental hygiene—brush and floss regularly, and make sure to see your dentist at least every six months for cleaning and other check-ups.
Conclusion
Having a hole in your tooth is uncomfortable and painful. If you’re scared of tooth extraction, rest assured that there are other ways around the situation. This is because some teeth can still be saved through cavity filling, which is a fast, easy, and painless procedure, and albeit the misconceptions about it. As mentioned, the area will be numbed to prevent pain and discomfort. If you feel any pain after the treatment, that’s only natural and will subside after some time.
Protect your tooth from completely rotting out with a cavity filling. If you want to get your cavity filled by a reputable local dentist in Ann Arbor, then you have come to the right place. Our experts offer a wide range of quality dental treatments that can remedy your dental situation. Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment!