Can A Filling Provide Lasting Protection After A Cavity?

If a cavity damages your tooth structure, you will need restorative dental work. The treatment your dentist provides does more than just stop the health of your tooth from worsening. After removing bacteria and damaged tissues, we will protect your tooth by providing you with a dental filling or dental crown. Dental fillings can be made from a metal amalgam material, or from lifelike substances that match the appearance of your enamel. When we place a filling, we provide long-term support for your tooth. That means that you can continue to bite and chew with it, and that you can remain safe against a possible infection in the site where a cavity previously formed. Of course, your daily habits will still impact your risk for problems after treatment, just as they influenced your risk for dental trouble before.

When Are Tooth Fillings Needed?

We use tooth fillings to address cavities. Over time, oral bacteria release acids that erode tooth enamel. Eventually, the damage causes a cavity, which will keep growing until restorative treatment occurs. The filling is placed after harmful microbes and infected tissues are removed by your dentist. Once in place, the filling provides functional support as well as a defense against a new infection. Fillings have to be permanently placed because the damage caused by a cavity will not heal by itself.

Different Types Of Tooth Fillings Available To You

Metal fillings offer more durability than their lifelike counterparts, but their conspicuous appearance can make them less attractive to patients. If you are worried about your smile after cavity treatment, a restoration made from porcelain or composite resin will close a cavity and imitate your tooth structure to avoid cosmetic concerns.

What If My Tooth Needs More Support Than A Filling Can Provide?

If your cavity is just too large for a filling to be effective, your dentist will provide you with a dental crown. Dental crowns cover teeth completely above your gum line. The greater coverage better protects your tooth and keeps it from being hurt or infected again. Regular dental exams help you avoid larger cavities, because your dentist has more opportunities to identify cavities and treat them before they grow serious enough to change how we approach your treatment.

Talk To Your Baxter, MN Dentist About Receiving A Tooth Filling!

Patients at Greenhaven Family Dental can receive fillings that support the health and stability of a tooth while also keeping it safe from a new infection. If you have difficulties with your oral health, or if you want to make sure your smile stays cavity-free, we are here to help! To learn more about us, please contact your Baxter, MN, dentist, Dr. Roberts, by calling (218) 454-0523.