Can a Dental Filling Treat Tooth Decay?

Getting a dental filling is important for avoiding additional damage to a tooth and preserving it. Read on to learn how a dental filling stops further tooth decay. Dental fillings assist in restoring normal function to teeth that have been compromised by decay. They may also be able to stop further deterioration. Filling materials come in various options, and your dentist will choose the best one for you based on several criteria.

How a dental filling is used to address tooth decay

Tooth decay begins when a sticky bacterial plaque builds up on the teeth, producing acids from sugar present in foods. These acids eat away at the strong enamel that protects the tooth, causing the loss of minerals. A white area may develop where minerals have been lost in the initial phase of deterioration. If left untreated, decay will progress to the dentin, causing the tooth to become sensitive. Decay progresses quicker inside the dentin than through the enamel, which means the infection can be prevented before it reaches the tooth's pulp.

Tooth decay is a fairly frequent health issue that affects a large number of people. It may lead to infection, severe pain, and tooth loss if not addressed. Tooth decay may be avoided with proper brushing, flossing, and frequent dental appointments. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is the first line of protection against tooth decay. However, once a cavity has developed, a dentist must use a filling to correct the damage.

Fixing holes caused by tooth decay

When tooth decay destroys a portion of a tooth, the cavity that results is generally painful. It may lead to ongoing infection, jeopardizing the structural integrity of the tooth or exposing inner nerves. Even if a dentist eliminates the decay from the interior of the cavity, the hole left behind will cause a slew of issues without repair. Filling the hole caused by tooth decay is important to restore the tooth's complete function. With that, more tooth deterioration may be prevented.

Improve the tooth's strength

By preventing plaque or bacteria from forming within cavities, fillings reduce the risk of infection and further decay. They also help protect the tooth from inward breakage resulting from trauma, cracking, or chipping. Even tiny cavities without a dental filling may jeopardize the health and function of one's teeth. Everyone should try to prevent cavities; however, even if cavities set in, getting a dental filling is usually enough to address the problem. It is possible to halt the decay process and restore dental function.

The bottom line

If a tiny area of erosion is discovered before it reaches the dentist. In that case, the dentist may suggest healing the region using fluoride toothpaste, mouth rinse, or fluoride-containing filling material. However, by the time you experience tooth decay discomfort, it is too late to reverse the process or take preventative measures. Dental fillings are important to prevent further complications.

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