How your dentist in Franklin, IN can help protect your smile from tooth decay.
You can do a lot to prevent cavities, and great oral hygiene is an important part. When you brush and floss regularly, you are helping to protect against tooth decay.
Another important way to prevent cavities is to visit your dentist at least once each year for an exam, including x-rays. Dr. Joshua Stevens at Franklin Dental in Franklin, IN can help you enjoy a cavity-free smile.
No matter what you do, you can still get a cavity. That’s because cavities are caused by bacteria contained in plaque. These bacteria produce acids that can eat through hard tooth enamel, causing a cavity.
If you have a tooth that is sensitive when you eat or drink hot, cold, or sweet foods or beverages, you could have a cavity. It’s important to know that you can also have a cavity and not feel any pain at all.
Only your dentist will know for sure whether you have a cavity.
There are several ways your dentist will repair a cavity. If you have a small cavity, your dentist will remove the decay and fill the cavity with either composite or metal filling material. Composite produces beautiful tooth-colored fillings that blend with your smile. Metal fillings are strong and economical.
If you have a large cavity and have lost large amounts of tooth structure, you probably need a dental crown to fully cover the tooth and prevent fracture. You can choose from porcelain or a combination of porcelain and metal crown.
You need to visit your dentist as soon as you can if you have a cavity. If you delay treatment, the decay can spread to the innermost layer of your tooth, known as the pulp. If the pulp is affected, you will probably need a root canal.
Your dentist can help save your smile when you have a cavity. To find out more about fillings, crowns, and other dental services, call Dr. Joshua Stevens of Franklin Dental in Franklin, IN at (317) 868-2672. Call today.