Fillings

If you have teeth that have been damaged by decay, your dentist may suggest dental fillings. This restorative procedure is necessary to stop tooth sensitivity and to prevent further decay.

During a routine dental appointment, your dentist will check your teeth for any signs of cavities and tooth decay. If found, the decayed material will be removed and all affected areas will be cleaned. Then, the cavity will be filled with your choice of material (you can pick from porcelain, composite resin, gold or amalgam). A filling is necessary so that bacteria won’t have any access to your tooth.

There are times though when a filling won’t be able to repair the damage caused by the decay. The cavity may already be too big and in such cases, your dentist will recommend a dental crown. If the tooth needs to be extracted then you may need a dental implant to replace your lost tooth. A root canal may also be needed for an infected tooth that has already caused an inflammation or infection in the tooth root.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Over the years, many preventive measures have been found to significantly reduce the incidence of dental disease. They are listed below:

• Brush your teeth twice a day using toothpaste with fluoride
• Floss at least once every day
• Visit your dentist at least twice a year (every six months)
• Eat a balanced diet
• Avoid eating and drinking in between large meals
• Ask your dentist if you should get dental sealants and fluoride treatment

Dental cavities and tooth decay can be prevented with regular dental checkups and good oral habits. These practices will not only save you from the excruciating pain that may arise due to the infection they will also spare you from having to deal with more costly procedures later on.