If you have a cavity, then treatment is needed. Otherwise, the decay could soon lead to more serious problems. In many cases, we can treat the issue in one visit with a simple restoration. How do we place a dental filling? What should you expect from the procedure?

What Happens If a Cavity Is Not Treated?

Without treatment, decay continues to grow and spread. Bacteria can eventually reach your tooth’s nerve center, also known as the pulp. When this occurs, an infection or abscess may form. The infection can lead to serious discomfort and, if not properly treated, it will cause the pulp to die. The tooth becomes a necrotic or “dead” tooth. The tooth will then need to be extracted to prevent the spread of infection, leaving you with a gap in your smile. The other alternative is root canal therapy, which can be done to eliminate the infection and save the tooth.

Placing a Filling

We begin by removing any decay and then cleaning the tooth. We prepare the composite resin, the metal-free material we use for our fillings. The material will be color-matched to ensure the restoration blends with the tooth. We place the material and shape it as the resin cures under a light. We then polish the tooth to ensure a more esthetic appearance. The entire procedure, start-to-finish, only takes one visit and often multiple fillings can be completed at one visit.

Preventing Further Decay

You can take steps to safeguard your smile against further decay. First, try cutting back on foods and drinks high in sugar and other starches. Instead, drink more water and enjoy healthier snack options (such as vegetables, fruit, nuts, and dairy products). We recommend that you brush your teeth twice a day and floss every night before bed to remove food particles and harmful bacteria. Finally, make sure you schedule a dental cleaning twice a year, during which we will remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums. The visit also allows us to examine the teeth and to diagnose tooth decay in the earliest stages, often before you experience tooth sensitivity or toothaches.

Do You Need a Filling?

At Magnolia Family Dental, Dr. Johnson-G’Sell and our talented team can help treat your tooth and prevent further complications. To schedule a visit with Dr. Emily Johnson, call Magnolia Family Dental in Kirkwood/St. Louis, MO, today at 314-822-4521.