It can be stressful for someone to find out they have a cavity. One of the biggest sources of stress is worrying about the treatment. It is important individuals seek prompt cavity treatment at the Dental Office in Elk Grove Village so they can avoid compromising the health of their smile.
How Is a Cavity Diagnosed?
When a patient comes in with a possible cavity, the dentist will ask them about any symptoms they have been experiencing, such as pain and increased sensitivity. With a full examination and dental X-rays, the dentist will be able to determine if a cavity is present in a tooth and how severe it is.
Cavities that are not treated promptly will continue to degrade the health of a tooth and can eventually cause decay to spread to surrounding teeth. Prompt treatment stops the progression of decay and will protect a person’s oral health.
How are Cavities Treated?
The treatment for cavities will depend on the severity of the decay. If the decay has affected the root of the tooth, the dentist may attempt to save it by performing a root canal. This involves removing the diseased pulp and cleaning the roots of the tooth.
A typical cavity is treated with a simple filling. The dentist first numbs the patient so they will not feel any discomfort while their tooth is being worked on. The first step in the process is using special tools to remove the diseased tooth tissue as much as possible so the decay will no longer continue.
Filling material is used to seal the tooth and keep it strong. Without the filling, a patient’s nerve might be exposed and their tooth would no longer be stable. Fillings may be made of metal, plastic materials, and ceramic, depending on the needs of the patient and the location of the cavity.
If you believe you may have a cavity, it is important to schedule an appointment with the Dental Office in Elk Grove Village. If you would like to schedule your appointment, contact Brian Homann, DDS, P.C. Allow them to care for the cavity so your oral health can be fully protected.