Root Canal & Fillings Treatment In Houston, Texas 77070
Fortunately, it can be fixed using minimally invasive methods if it’s caught early. During your regular dental exams, your dentist will check for any signs of decay. If needed, they will use the following methods to remove decay and protect the health of your teeth.
Signs of Tooth Decay
Advanced tooth decay can cause pain, sensitivity, and changes in the appearance of a tooth. However, mild tooth decay typically does not cause symptoms at all. This is why routine checkups are so important. If decay is caught in the mild stages, it is easier for the dentist to treat the issue.
Dental Fillings
Fillings are one of the most common dental procedures. They are typically used to treat mild to moderate forms of tooth decay. During a filling, your dentist cleans away decay using small tools, such as drills. Then, they will fill the clean area with a strong material, such as composite resin or porcelain. These materials are tooth-colored and nontoxic, making them a popular alternative to the amalgam (metal) fillings that were popular in the past.
Root Canals
If decay has spread to the tooth root, then a root canal will be needed to remove the damage. During a root canal, your dentist will remove damaged tooth pulp. The pulp is deep inside the tooth, beyond the area where a dental filling would be. After removing the damaged pulp, the dentist will then clean and seal the area, preventing future damage. Finally, the tooth is reinforced, usually with a dental crown. While old stereotypes lead people to believe root canals are painful, modern root canals are quick, simple, and performed using an anesthetic.
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