If you have a cavity, it should be filled as soon as possible to prevent further damage!
Going to your dentist is important for your overall health. Although you might not think of cavities as problems that can send you to the emergency, your oral health does have an impact on your overall well-being. It shouldn’t take too long to get any cavities you might have filled in, but in the meantime, here’s what you need to know.
How Cavities Form
Plaque accumulation is to blame for anything that damages your teeth. The plaque comes from bacteria hiding in your mouth, especially when you go for long periods without brushing your teeth, flossing, or using mouthwash. If you don’t do anything about the plaque, it eventually morphs into tartar. Tartar is also called calculus because it is so hard, much like the branch of math that shares its name. Any holes in your teeth enamel formed during this process are called cavities. You need a dentist to fill them in because as amazing as your body is, there are some things that it can’t do by itself.
How Fillings Work
Before a filling can be inserted, your dentist will need to use a local anesthetic. Lidocaine is one such example. The lidocaine works by making your mouth numb for the time being. You’ll feel a pinch and a sting at first, but once the numbing kicks in, you won’t be able to feel much of anything. Your dentist then uses a drill to cut out any areas of decay that are there. In some cases, a laser might be used instead of the conventional drill. Once the tooth decay is cleared away, the next step is to prepare the actual filling. Part of that involves coating the tooth with an acid-based gel.
Securing the Fillings
This gel helps keep the filling secure while it is being fitted to the gaps in your teeth. Some fillings, depending on what they are made of, need light to finish hardening. That’s why your dentist will shine a light into your mouth. Finally, the filling will be polished. Not only does this make the filling shiny, but it also eliminates any sharp edges that could hurt your tongue or the insides of your cheeks. A filling procedure should only take about an hour.
You Can Trust Olney Dental for All of Your Dental Care Needs
For all of your oral care questions and concerns, Olney Dental has the expertise and professionalism to get them the answers they need. Olney Dental is ready to supply you with expert service in a professional environment. Schedule an appointment online today! For more information on how we can give your family the best dentist experience available, give us a call at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online. For more dental tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Pinterest.