Could You Have a Dental Cavity?

Are you suddenly unable to enjoy your nightly dessert because of dental discomfort? Did your last coffee break consist only of a glass of water, because of sensitivity when you try to enjoy hot beverages? If so, you could be struggling with a dental cavity. You are not alone, if you are diagnosed with a cavity. Some studies suggest that nearly 90 percent of the adults in America will struggle with dental decay, like tooth caries, commonly called cavities. Fortunately, dental fillings provide a fast and effective way to treat most cavities, helping to protect a tooth against further erosion, and just as importantly, to restore a patient’s comfort. So if you are concerned that a cavity may have developed, putting a damper in your social life and especially your dessert traditions, it is time to talk to your dentist about how a filling could help!

Warning Signs of Dental Problems

Sensitivity isn’t the only potential warning sign that you could have a cavity. Discoloration is another common symptom of cavities. From white patches, where the enamel may have begun eroding, to grey lines along crevices of teeth, if you notice changes in your teeth’s coloring, it could be due to a cavity. If you have spotted yellow tartar buildup on the surface of your teeth, it is best to schedule a dental checkup as soon as possible. Prompt removal of tartar is the best way to prevent cavities and other dental problems!

How Restorative Treatment Can Protect Your Tooth

Dental fillings are one of the fastest and least invasive ways a dentist can help restore your smile. In most cavity cases, the dentist will first x-ray your tooth to determine how bad the damage is, then thoroughly clean and sanitize the tooth. Then the dentist can apply a composite resin material that is designed to bond well with the teeth, creating a tight seal against further erosion and a barrier, so you no longer experience discomfort. Perhaps best of all, this resin material is made to closely match your existing teeth, so most people will not even recognize that you’ve had restorative dental work completed.