Cavity
Fillings
Dental cavities are the most common oral health problem worldwide. A vast majority of the world’s population will develop one or more cavities in their lifetimes. If you develop a cavity, it is necessary to have it filled by your dentist. Learn more about cavity fillings below.
What is a cavity?
A cavity is a hole in your tooth that is caused by tooth decay. If not treated, cavities can cause tooth loss, painful toothaches, or infections. If you have a cavity, we’ll get rid of the decay and fill it to protect your tooth.
How do you tell if you have a cavity?
A cavity is a hole in your tooth that is caused by tooth decay. If not treated, cavities can cause tooth loss, painful toothaches, or infections. If you have a cavity, we’ll get rid of the decay and fill it to protect your tooth.
However, if you are experiencing any of the following warning signs, you should contact us:
• Pain while chewing, especially if the pain is in a certain tooth
• Sensitivity to cold and/or hot foods
• Chips/cracks on teeth
• Dark areas on teeth
• Bad breath
What happens after you get a filling?
Be sure to maintain regular teeth cleaning appointments. Use a fluoride toothpaste (at least twice a day) to protect your teeth from further damage. Floss your teeth at least once daily.
Note: Right after your filling, your teeth may be more sensitive to air, pressure, sweet foods, and temperature. This sensitivity should go away after a few weeks. Call us if the feeling does not go away after 2-4 weeks. You may need to start using a desensitizing toothpaste or have a root canal.
Call us if you notice a crack in your new filling or if you feel a sharp edge from the cavity. This can happen from chewing or clenching/grinding your teeth.
How do you prevent cavities?
You can prevent cavities by taking care of your teeth. This includes:
• Brushing your teeth regularly (especially after eating and before bed)
• Using a fluoride toothpaste or rinse for extra protection
• Avoiding too much sugar/carbs/sticky food (and brushing your teeth immediately after eating any of these)
• Avoiding tobacco/cigarettes
• Not drinking excessively
If you think you may have a cavity, you need to be sure to have it treated right away. Contact us at Dental Innovations Katy to make an appointment.