There are many reasons why it is important to understand the cavity filling process. The majority of people will experience at least one cavity throughout their lifetime. When you don’t have your cavities filled, they will progress to a much more significant degree that will require more intensive treatment. When you know what to expect through the cavity filling process, you will likely have less anxiety surrounding the dental visit. Here are a few things that you need to know about the cavity filling process.
Preventing Cavities
The prevention of cavities can often help to improve the oral health of an individual. This approach is always the best way to handle the health of your smile. There are several steps that you can take to help prevent cavities. For one thing, you need to visit your dentist on a regular basis, twice per year, in order to catch cavities in the early stages. Using mouthwash, especially mouthwash with fluoride, can help to strengthen the enamel layer of the teeth. It is also important to be aware of what you eat. When you consume a significant amount of sugar, you will often experience increased damage to the teeth.
Numbing the Area
The cavity filling process isn’t supposed to be painful. Due to this, the first step in the cavity filling process is to ensure that the area is thoroughly numbed. This usually begins with the use of a jelly-like substance that is spread over the affected area. After this has been done, it will be followed with an anesthetic injection. This is to ensure that the overall area is completely numbed. This is usually the extent of numbing that is provided. However, for people who have extreme dental anxiety, it is possible that nitrous oxide will be implemented to aid in relaxation throughout the process.
May Use a Rubber Dam
A rubber dam may be used to aid in the cavity filling process. This dam is intended to provide better access to the affected tooth. It provides many other benefits as well, such as preventing particles and debris from falling back into the mouth and the throat.
Removing Tooth Decay
The tooth decay removal process tends to be the portion that causes the most anxiety. The anesthetic should ensure that this process is painless, however. During this process, the dentist will use a laser, air abrasion instrument, or drill to thoroughly remove the decayed material from the affected tooth. Once all tooth decay has been removed, the area will be thoroughly cleaned to help remove any residual debris prior to filling.
Filling the Cavity
The decay removal process will leave a hole in the affected tooth. This hole will need to be filled in to help minimize damage to your tooth. The cavity filling will help to prevent bacteria from entering into the area, which can aid in preventing damage. It also provides additional protection against further tooth decay. This filling will be shaped and polished carefully to ensure that it matches the surrounding teeth in the mouth. During this point, your dentist will also check to ensure that the filling won’t interfere with your bite and the functionality of your teeth.
How Long the Process Lasts
The cavity filling process doesn’t take an extreme amount of time. In fact, it can usually be completed in under an hour. In some situations, it can take as little as 15 minutes. It is important to keep in mind that the duration of the process may fluctuate depending on the severity of the cavity and other factors.
Following the Cavity Filling
After your cavity has been filled, you can expect your mouth to remain numb for several hours due to the anesthetic. Be careful about what you eat during this time to prevent injuring yourself. The tooth that has been filled may also be particularly sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, but this should subside over time.
Our team at Mt. Ogden Dental can help to guide you through the entire cavity filling process. We can help to ensure that all of your needs can be met, which can keep your teeth in the best possible condition. For more information about how the cavity filling process works, contact us at Mt. Ogden Dental today!
Leave a Reply