Last week we looked at what restorative dentistry could do for a damaged tooth. We would like to go a little further this week and discuss how restorative treatment can repair a decayed or possibly infected tooth. Treating these issues is important, especially if you want to maintain a whole and healthy smile. Otherwise, you may develop serious discomfort and possibly lose the tooth.
Do You Have A Decayed Or Infected Tooth?
Tooth Decay: If you develop a cavity we typically use a filling to address the problem. Made from a composite resin, a filling prevents further decay and blends with the tooth. However, should the decay be more severe we may suggest a dental crown, which covers the entire visible portion of the tooth and protects the remaining structure from further damage. Treating a cavity helps avoid the risk of infection and stops tooth sensitivity/toothaches that occurs when a tooth is decayed. Don’t ignore any discomfort in your tooth, see your dentist right away to see if you need restorative treatment.
Dental Infection: What about an infection? A tooth becomes infected when bacteria comes in contact with the inner pulp, typically through advanced decay or a chip/fracture. Once a tooth is infected, treatment is necessary to prevent spread of infection to other teeth or the death of the infected tooth. We can use a root canal to remove the infected tissue and a crown to restore the tooth to full function and health.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
We recommend seeing the doctor if you notice any discomfort, such as a toothache or pain when biting or chewing. These could be signs of a cavity or possible the early indicators of an infection. The doctor can examine your smile and see if you require treatment.
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