Finding out you have a cavity can be frustrating. After all, you do your best to take care of your teeth, so finding out there is decay can be upsetting. However, tooth decay is a common oral hygiene issue and can typically be fixed with a simple dental filling. Your team at Wayman Family Dentistry in Oklahoma City, OK, is here today to talk about what you can expect when you come in for this restorative treatment.
Your Cleaning And Examination
You may not know that you have a cavity because oftentimes they do not show symptoms until they reach a severe phase. This is one of the many reasons why it’s important to see your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. When you come in for your visit, a skilled hygienist will carefully clean and polish your teeth, which can help prevent cavities from developing. Then, X-rays may be taken, and your dentist will carefully look at your teeth and gums. This step helps to detect problems you may not notice early on, like cavities, gum disease, or misalignment. If your dentist notices that there is a problem, they can make a plan for restorative treatment as soon as possible.
Removing The Decay
Tooth decay can often be treated with dental fillings to prevent the cavity from wearing away your enamel. When you come in for your restorative treatment, we may use sedation to help keep you comfortable for the duration of your appointment. Then, the decayed part of the tooth is carefully removed. This step helps prevent the harmful bacteria from continuing to wear away at the layers of your tooth. Without this step, the bacteria could enter the pulp and require a root canal later on, which can be a more invasive procedure.
Filling The Area For Protection
After the decay has been carefully removed, the space left behind will be gently cleaned before the new material is added. We use composite resin for this process, as the material can be easily bonded to many surfaces and blends in naturally with the appearance of your tooth. After this, the material will be smoothed down, and your dentist will check that it fits your bite correctly. Any necessary adjustments will be made, and then the area is polished to create a smooth look. When your treatment is over, your team will send you home with specific aftercare instructions. Typically, the procedure involves no eating or drinking for around one hour after your visit to make sure the filling sets properly.
Schedule Your Appointment With Our Team
When you have tooth decay, you need to get it repaired as soon as possible to keep your smile healthy and damage-free. To schedule a dental filling or other treatment with Wayman Family Dentistry, call our Oklahoma City, OK, team today at 405-752-0111.
