When you have an aching tooth, this could mean there is decay that needs treatment. To stop toothaches and prevent cavities from becoming infections, your Houston, TX, dentist may prescribe a dental filling. We have both metal and metal-free options, but which one is right for your smile? In addition, what can you do to help avoid tooth decay altogether?
Metal vs. Composite Resin
For years, metal fillings were the only option available for treating cavities. However, we now have a more attractive option created from a metal-free mixture of glass and acrylic known as composite resin. The material can absorb daily forces and is typically reserved for the front-facing teeth. We even tint them to match the color of your surrounding tooth structure.
For the side and rear teeth, which ensure greater bite forces and daily pressure, we may still suggest a metal option. Choices may include gold, silver, and amalgam. These options are incredibly strong and absorb serious pressure.
The Dangers of Untreated Cavities
A cavity forms when harmful bacteria reach the inner dentin, the more sensitive layers of your tooth structure. The enamel usually holds bacteria back, but if a tooth becomes injured, or the enamel weakened due to plaque buildup and poor oral hygiene, then a cavity could form. Unless we treat the area, the cavity will continue to grow until bacteria reaches your tooth’s nerve center, referred to as the pulp. At this point, the tooth could become infected and develop more severe symptoms. If you experience sensitivity or pain in a tooth, let us know right so away so we can offer treatment!
Keep Your Smile Strong
To help lower the risks of future cavities, be sure you take time to brush your teeth twice a day for minutes, once when you wake up and again before bed. Be sure you floss nightly too, as this reaches what a toothbrush alone cannot. Cut back on the sugary foods and drinks that fuel harmful bacteria, and also make time to see our team for a checkup and cleaning visit. We then remove plaque, and also keep an eye the smile for any potential warning signs of trouble. If you have any questions about treating tooth decay, or about how we create and place a dental filling, then contact our team today.
OUR HOUSTON, TX DENTIST’S OFFICE STOPS TOOTHACHES WITH FILLINGS
At our Houston, TX dentist’s office, our team is ready to address minor and severe cavities with secure and long-lasting dental restorations. Don’t let complications lead to increased pain, or the risk of possibly losing the tooth altogether! Find out more about our restorative treatment options by calling Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry at (281) 974-4494.
