If you think you have a cavity, should you be more concerned about the appearance of your smile, or about your oral health? The lasting impact of tooth decay can depend on when you address the problem, and what kind of restoration is provided to you. The good news is that our Sheridan, WY dentist’s office can makes sure your tooth is restored, and we can also put a lifelike dental filling or dental crown in place to protect it. Once you are through with treatment, you can be free of concerns about your oral health or appearance. Of course, it should be noted that a lack of treatment can lead to worrying issues like dental pain, the spread of bacteria from your tooth to different areas of your body, and tooth loss!
An Untreated Cavity Can Become A Big Problem
Until you have it treated by a dentist, a cavity will continue to grow and damage more of your tooth structure. In time, the decay can expose the inner chamber of your tooth, known as the pulp, to a bacterial infection. This can lead to pain and sensitivity, as well as problems like swelling, or other signs of poor health. It can even lead to changes in the tooth’s color, and your ability to comfortably bite and chew. Eventually, bacteria can do enough harm to leave no chance that a tooth can be saved! Fortunately, if you respond to signs of decay in time, the matter can be addressed before there are serious complications to worry about.
Receiving A Custom Dental Filling Or Dental Crown
The type of restoration you receive will depend on the condition your tooth is in when you make an appointment for treatment. Dental fillings are the most conservative treatment option that you have available to you. Dental fillings only occupy the portion of a tooth where the cavity formed, and they can bond directly to your enamel to provide an impressive level of stability. Dental crowns are used when a person has a cavity too large for a dental filling. Because we use CEREC technology at our practice, we can actually have a custom crown ready for you in as little as one day!
These Tips Can Help You Avoid Cavities In The Future
As important as it is to keep up with your brushing and flossing habits, remember to keep up with good habits between acts of active smile care. In other words, be smart about what you eat and drink in order to cut back on your exposure to sugar. It can also help to stay hydrated – water is a good substitute for potentially harmful beverages like soft drinks, juice, and alcohol, plus it can help you avoid dry mouth!
Your Sheridan, WY Dentist’s Office Can Address Tooth Decay
Grinnell Street Dental is prepared to help patients who are concerned about tooth decay, and its potential effect on their smile and oral health. For more information, call our Sheridan, WY dentist’s office at 307-672-7567.
