Tooth Cavities

Are you experiencing tooth pain, but don’t know why? You may have a tooth infection and cavity.

Cavities are tooth decay caused by a build-up of plaque. The most common cause is our lifestyle! What we eat and drink, and our oral habits have a detrimental effect on our mouths. Still, even the most avid brusher and flosser can experience dental cavities. Dr. Yang screens for the early signs of tooth decay during routine preventive care visits with x-rays and a comprehensive analysis. Lakewood Smile Dental offers treatment for tooth decay, including white composite fillings. Your Lakewood WA dentist can fill cavities in the same day.

It is important to visit our Lakewood Smile Dental office at least twice a year for routine dental care and screenings. We can often diagnose a cavity before you experience symptoms and provide proactive treatment to avoid further damage to a tooth. However, if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should make an appointment right away.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON SIGNS OF TOOTH DECAY?

There are a few sings of a tooth decay that you should be aware of. If you are experiencing any of the below symptoms, schedule an appointment.

• Recurring Toothaches: They can be caused by many things, but regular toothaches can be the first sign of decay.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Things like being sensitive when biting down on hard foods, or an odd sensation when chewing can be caused by tooth decay.
• Pain or sensitivity: when eating or drinking hot or cold foods and beverages is a sign that your tooth is telling you to visit the dentist.
• Holes in your teeth: A tell-tale sign of deterioration.
• Pus around teeth and gums: This is a major sign of infection and should be addressed right away.

TREATMENT FOR TOOTH CAVITIES

If left untreated, dental caries (tooth cavities) will eventually destroy the roots and nerves of your tooth. The only treatment for a destroyed root is a root canal, so it is important to treat dental cavities early. A dental filling is the most common form of treatment for a tooth cavity. Fillings are natural looking and provide long-lasting treatment for cavities.

Another option is the placement of a dental crown. Dental crowns cover the teeth like a cap and may be recommended for a tooth that has significant decay. Porcelain dental crowns are extremely natural looking and are cared for the same way as natural teeth. Dr. Yang also places partial crowns, or inlays and onlays, for tooth cavities and damage to the larger back teeth. Inlays and onlays are used when your cavity needs more than a dental filling, but not as much coverage as a crown.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

If you believe you have a tooth cavity, or have not been to a dentist in the last 6 months, call Smile Dental of Lakewood or schedule a consultation online. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate dentistry to restore your oral health. Enjoy the benefits of a healthy smile.