It’s the start of the new year, and for many people, this means that your dental benefits have reset. Typically, your benefits can include preventive and restorative care, which can help ensure that you maintain a happy smile. Now that they have reset, this is a good time of year to come in for your checkup and plan out any necessary treatments you may need this year. One of these treatments could be dental fillings, which are used to help stop the progression of a cavity. In today’s blog, your team at Audubon Dental Center in Audubon, IA, is here to talk about how this treatment can help you.
Come In For Your Checkup
In general, it’s recommended that you visit your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and examination. During this appointment, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and polished by a skilled hygienist. Your dentist will then carefully examine your smile to check for signs of decay, worn down teeth, gingivitis, and more. If you have a cavity, your dentist may recommend a filling to stop the cavity before it worsens.
Plan Dental Fillings Now
Cavities happen when plaque hardens on your tooth and begins to wear away the enamel. As a result, a small hole can form on your pearly white, which can cause sensitivity and discomfort. This is a fairly common problem for patients of all ages, due to a combination of our diets and oral hygiene routines. If you have been told that you have a cavity, you will need to schedule a dental filling as soon as possible so the decay does not worsen. The restoration is minimally invasive and, in most cases, can be completed in less than an hour. After numbing the area, the damaged part of the tooth is gently removed. The space will then be cleaned before the new material is added in its place. Finally, your dentist will polish the area to ensure it blends in comfortably.
Treatment For Serious Cavities
Dental fillings can often treat mild to moderate cavities. In some cases, though, a different treatment may be needed to address decay that has reached the pulp of the tooth. If you have a serious, long lasting tooth ache caused by a cavity, it could be a sign that you need a root canal. During this treatment, the damaged pulp is removed, and the space is disinfected before adding a strong material to your tooth. This process can be more invasive but can help protect your smile.
Schedule An Appointment With Our Team
Dental fillings can help treat cavities and prevent serious toothaches in the future. To schedule your restoration, call the Audubon Dental Center in Audubon, IA, today at 712-563-2659.