A dental filling plays a critical role in protecting the teeth and preventing further damage. But it also helps to understand how a dental filling prevents tooth decay. When teeth are damaged by decay, dental fillings help to restore them to their normal function. They can also prevent further decay. There are different types of filling material, and your dentist will consider several factors when choosing the right option.
Tooth decay starts when sticky bacterial plaque forms on the teeth and creates acids from the sugars consumed in food. These acids wear down the hard enamel covering the teeth, causing it to continue to lose minerals. At the early stages of decay, a white spot may appear where minerals have been lost. Left unaddressed, decay will work its way to the dentin, and that is when the tooth will become sensitive and the cavity will need a filling. Since decay spreads faster through the dentin than it does the enamel, an infection can be stopped by catching it before it reaches the pulp of one’s teeth.
Tooth decay is a very common health problem that affects many individuals. If it is not treated, it can lead to infection, severe toothache, and tooth loss. Fortunately, a good brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits can prevent tooth decay. The first line of defense against tooth decay is to exercise good oral hygiene. But once a cavity has formed, a dentist has to repair the damage with a filling.
When part of one’s tooth is destroyed by tooth decay, the resulting cavity is often sensitive. It could become a site of continuous infection and compromise the tooth’s structural integrity or expose inner nerves. Even if a dentist removes the decay from inside the cavity, the hole left behind would present a host of problems for the tooth. By filling the hole, therefore, the damaged tooth is restored to full functionality. Further tooth decay can be stopped at this point.
Fillings lower the chances of infections by preventing plaque or bacteria from building up inside cavities. They also strengthen the tooth to prevent it from breaking inward due to trauma, cracking, or chipping. Without a dental filling, even small cavities could seriously undermine the health and function of one’s teeth. Everyone should make an effort to avoid cavities, but fillings mean there is still hope even after getting a cavity. The decay process can be stopped and tooth function regained.
Tooth decay can be quite tricky. If a small area of erosion is detected before it reaches the dentin, the dental provider might recommend repairing the spot with toothpaste, a mouth rinse, or a filling material that contains fluoride. However, by the time you are feeling the pain from tooth decay, it is already too late to reverse the process or take preventive action. Dental fillings exist to stop things from getting out of hand. And that is how a dental filling prevents tooth decay.
Are you considering a dental filling in the Dalton area? Get more information at https://drcalldental.com.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Along with swelling and pain, consistently bleeding gums can be a symptom of gum disease. There are two main types of gum disease, gingivitis and periodontitis, with the latter being a more advanced version. In serious cases, this condition can ultimately result in tooth loss. It is helpful to understand who may be more susceptible…
In and of themselves, bleeding gums are not a huge cause for concern. However, the cause is worth investigating, as it may indicate a serious condition, such as gum disease or gingivitis, or the root of the issue may be nothing more than a change in dental hygiene habits. Before you panic, check out these…
Dental bonding is a versatile and effective cosmetic dental procedure that addresses a range of aesthetic and functional concerns. By using a tooth-colored resin material, dental bonding can enhance the appearance of teeth, repair minor damage, and restore confidence in a smile. Identifying the signs that indicate a patient may benefit from dental bonding helps…
Patients who notice their gums bleeding upon brushing, flossing, or even eating may initially panic. However, while bleeding gums often signify the beginnings of gingivitis, this inflammation and the resulting gum disease can be reversed with timely and targeted treatments if it is caught soon enough. It is important to investigate the cause of long-term…
