If a tooth can’t regrow the structure that it loses to a cavity,
does that mean that cavities can’t affect the same tooth twice? Unfortunately,
they can. Cavities are a result of tooth decay, a bacterial infection; even if
the tooth is treated, it’s still susceptible to infection that could destroy
what remains of the tooth’s healthy structure. Fortunately, keeping the treated
tooth healthy is as simple as keeping the rest of your teeth healthy. Practice
good hygiene by brushing and flossing at least twice a day, and attend your regular dental checkup and cleaning as often as recommended.
How to Treat a Cavity
To prevent a cavity from striking twice, it helps to treat
the initial cavity with a durable restoration. In most cases, that
describes a white tooth filling that can be bonded to your tooth’s structure to effectively seal the cavity from further infection. In extreme cases, the tooth’s inner
chamber and root canals may have to be cleaned of infected tissues and sealed
before the filling is placed (also called a root canal procedure). If
necessary, additional protection can be provided by capping the tooth with a
custom-made dental crown.
How to Prevent Cavities
The bacteria that lead to cavity development are found abundantly
in dental plaque, and good dental hygiene revolves around controlling plaque
before these germs can cause damage. Brushing and flossing your teeth temporarily
eliminates the bacterial biofilm, but it forms constantly, and if it remains
long enough, it will calcify into tartar. Unlike plaque, tartar can only be removed
with professional equipment at the dentist’s office, and if it forms, the
bacteria it protects can grow stronger until your next visit to the dentist. Maintaining a schedule of routine dental cleanings will allow Dr. Smith to routinely remove tartar and reduce your risks of cavity development.
ABOUT YOUR GRAND PRAIRIE DENTIST:
Dr. Quinn Smith is a well-respected and highly experienced
general, restorative, and family dentist in Grand Prairie, TX. He takes a
patient-first approach that starts from the moment patients enter our Pecan
Tree Dental office, and he offers a three-year guarantee on all dental
work that he performs. Whether you and your family are new or returning
patients, you can schedule a consultation or your next appointment with Dr.
Smith by contacting us at (972) 262-5111.
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