The Cavity: From Diagnosis To Treatment
No matter how good you are at brushing and flossing
, every once in a while you will start to feel that familiar aching and sensitivity that can mean only one thing: your tooth has been invaded by a nasty little cavity. You can usually tell exactly where the localized discomfort is coming from, as it tends to flare a little shock of pain every time you eat or drink.
Cavities are essentially a hole or indentation in your tooth, which has created decay, or a disease known as caries. They are not life threatening, but are just a plain old pain in the butt.
It is possible to have a cavity without even knowing it-this is why having x-rays taken regularly with your dental cleanings is extremely important. Sometimes only through x-rays can the dentist see the dark spots of decay within the depths of your tooth.
If you were to leave a cavity within the tooth and not treat it, you would eventually lose the tooth, and even the entire nerve. The longer you let it sit, the more extensive the treatment will become.
What could have been a simple filling could turn into a horrible root canal, or complete tooth and nerve removal. Since pain is usually our first indication that something is wrong, do not ignore this natural warning your body is providing you.
When you see your dentist, be sure to tell him about your pain, and exactly where it is coming from. Once he or she locates it, they can then asses how to best treat your problem.
Most cases require a simple filling. While this is not a big deal, it can be a time consuming process, so make sure you have plenty of time booked out of your day for treatment.
The first thing the dentist will do is numb your tooth and gum area with a local anesthetic. Some people have allergic reactions to this, so be sure to note your response and let your dentist know if you are uncomfortable.
Once the area is fully numbed, you should feel nothing but a slight pressure when he drills. If you are feeling pain or too much sensitivity, be sure to speak up-he will numb you further, till you are completely comfortable.
The dentist will then begin drilling the infected area out of your tooth. This is usually painless, though the sound of the drill can be quite irritating.
Many dentists provide head phones, or ear plugs if this process makes you uncomfortable. The drilling usually lasts about ten to twenty minutes, depending upon the depth of the decay.
Once he has drilled out everything that is infected, he will make an inlay replacement of either gold or porcelain. If you want your filling to look natural, you will want a white porcelain one.
Gold has been known to last longer, but if you are very diligent in the care of your teeth, your porcelain filling can be long lasting as well. If it is ever irritated or painful, tell your dentist as it may need to be replaced.
They can be more expensive than gold ones, but they will be much less noticeable when you smile and speak. Once a sealer and cushion is laid down within the tooth, the inlay is placed on top, and sealed.
A special laser light is used to completely seal the filling, and dry it quickly. This process usually takes about fifteen to twenty minutes.
He will then test the lay of the surface, to make sure it matches the others, and will not be too noticeable for your tongue. He will do this by placing a special blue paper within your teeth, and have you bite down on it several times.
This will allow him to see the pressure points, and where he needs to sand down. Don't settle because you are tired of being in the chair-you want something that is going to be comfortable and natural long-term.
Once the process is complete, you will still be numb for a few hours after. The more you talk and move your mouth, the quicker it will wear off.
To prevent any further damage, you will want to be very diligent about brushing your teeth, flossing, and gargling with fluoride or other helpful dental recommendations. Your cavity does not have to be a tragedy-be sure to tell your dentist about discomfort right away, and save yourself pain down the road.
by: Ronald Pedactor
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