Small Cavities can be Repaired by Fillings

Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day as well as attending your routine dental checkup, will help to prevent tooth decay. Unfortunately, there are times when, despite your best efforts the bacteria in your mouth will destroy a small amount of enamel on one of your teeth.

Most cavities are detected during your regular dental checkup. However, if you find a cavity on one of your teeth you should call to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Repairing the cavity early will help keep it from developing into something more serious.

Most of the time your dentist can repair a small area of tooth decay by applying a filling. The procedure for filling the cavity starts with your dentist taking a few x-rays to assess the degree of decay. They can then numb the area with novocaine.

Next your dentist will use a drill to remove all of the decayed enamel, leaving a clean surface to anchor your new filling. The material your filling is made from will vary depending on the tooth’s primary function and its relationship to your smile. The most common materials include gold, amalgam composite plastic and porcelain. Amalgam and composite materials can be directly applied to the cavity, while gold and porcelain fillings require two appointments.

If you have a cavity in one of your teeth, or you are due for your next dental cleaning, please call us at 312.551.0500 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you!