When you have a toothache, this could mean persistent pain that grows worse with time. To bring relief, you need to seek treatment with a dental filling, which addresses a cavity in only one visit. In today’s blog, your Woodland Hills, CA, dentist will talk about when a toothache needs a dental filling.
Toothaches and Tooth Decay
The outside of each tooth is coated with enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. This protects the sensitive inner layers of tooth structure from exposure to harmful bacteria, and from injury. But when the enamel is compromised, this exposes these layers of bacteria and allows a cavity to form. The decay spreads with time unless treated, and could cause tooth sensitivity and toothaches, and eventually, an infection that threatens tooth stability. Causes of weakened enamel include injury, teeth grinding, and plaque buildup caused by poor oral hygiene habits, like improper brushing and flossing and infrequent dental cleanings.
Treatment with a Filling
When you have pain in your tooth let us know right away. We will schedule a visit to see us, and carefully examine your smile with advanced technology. We then decide if you need a filling. If so, the area will be numbed with a local anesthetic, and our team will then remove all decay and thoroughly clean the tooth. We then apply the filling material, a metal-free composite resin that is safe for all ages, and can also be shaded to blend with the rest of your tooth. We sculpt and mold the tooth as this material cures under a light. Then we polish the tooth for a brighter appearance, the entire process taking only one visit to complete.
Taking a Preventive Approach
You can then take a preventive approach to dental care, one that helps you have a lowered risk of tooth decay. For example, at home you can cut back on sugar and starch, as these particles can cling to the teeth and facilitate the onset of plaque buildup. Be sure you brush twice a day for two minutes each time, and use a fluoride toothpaste when you do. Be sure you floss every evening too, and make time to see us every six months for a checkup and cleaning visit. If you have any questions about how to avoid the onset of tooth decay or how we treat cavities with a filling, then contact our team today to learn more.
Your Woodland Hills, CA Dentist Offers Lifelike Dental Restorations
We would like to help restore your smile with a restoration and bring relief. If you would like to find out about natural-looking dental restorations, or schedule a visit, then contact your Woodland Hills, CA dentist, Dr. Naminik, by calling 818-347-5124.