As we head into a new year, now is a great time to start planning your dental checkups and additional care. Preventive treatments can help you keep your smile safe and detect any potential concerns that may come up. In addition to cleanings and examinations, your dentist may recommend restorative treatments to address problems like cavities, damaged teeth, and more. Your team at Allen and Neumann in Pella, IA, offers treatments that can help restore your smile back to its optimal health. In today’s blog, we’re here to talk about dental fillings to repair your tooth after cavities.
Prevent Cavities With Checkups
Tooth decay is a very common problem for patients of all ages. To keep cavities at bay, remember to practice an effective oral hygiene routine every day and visit your dentist biannually. Your at-home oral hygiene routine should include brushing and flossing at least twice a day to remove bacteria and food particles from your mouth. These steps can keep your breath smelling fresh and prevent decay. During your biannual checkup, a professional cleaning will be performed to remove plaque buildup. Your dentist will then carefully examine your teeth and gums to look for signs of decay, gingivitis, and more. If any concerns are noticed, they can update your treatment plan to include restorative care.
Restore Your Smile With Fillings
In most cases, your cavity will be treated with a dental filling. This process involves removing the damaged part of your tooth, cleaning the space, and adding a stronger material to protect your pearly whites. This restoration is minimally invasive and can often be completed in as little as one hour. If you have been told you have a cavity, it’s important to schedule a filling as soon as possible to prevent the decay from worsening. Without a dental filling, the cavity could continue to grow and cause serious damage to your dental structures.
Treat Severe Cavities With A Root Canal
A root canal treatment may be necessary if you have a severe cavity, or if the area has become infected. This treatment will involve removing the damaged area of your tooth and adding a stronger material to the space left behind. The difference with these procedures is that during the root canal, the pulp will need to be accessed and removed. The pulp is the inner layer of your tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and tissues. When decay reaches this area, it can cause serious discomfort. A root canal can bring near immediate relief for a severe cavity and prevent the need for tooth extraction.
Plan Your Restorations Today
Dental fillings can help protect your tooth from serious decay. Call the team at Allen and Neumann in Pella, IA, today at 641.628.1121 today.