At Arcadia Dental Arts of Phoenix, AZ, Dr. John Pappas and his team of professionals work routinely with patients to help them in achieving their smile goals. Conditions such as cavities can derail a patient’s oral health and wellness but can be easily treated with fillings.
Understanding cavities
Dr. John Pappas of Arcadia Dental Arts describes a cavity as an area of tooth decay that has developed, causing damage to the natural tooth structure. If the cavity is large, you could experience sensitivity when enjoying your favorite foods or even pain and discomfort that can lead you to call your dentist for help. Without a definitive diagnosis and proper treatment, patients are at risk of developing a more serious issue when the cavity becomes more prominent and more profound, resulting in infection of the dental pulp inside of the tooth. At this point, a filling is not the best treatment, and instead, the dentist may recommend root canal therapy or permanent extraction. This is why it is vital that you catch cavities and other dental problems in their earliest stages and seek treatment immediately.
How is a cavity filled?
To fill a cavity, Dr. John Pappas starts by numbing the mouth for patient comfort. Then, the decay is removed, and the area is sealed using a composite resin material. This material is made to match the color of the tooth to blend in with the smile and provide the proper coverage.
How long does it take to fill a cavity?
It usually takes one to two hours to fill a cavity. The length of time depends on the size and location of the cavity. If the cavity is large or located in a difficult spot, it may take longer than a smaller cavity near the surface of an easily-accessible tooth.
How do I find out if I can benefit from a cavity filling?
The dental team at Arcadia Dental Arts will evaluate your smile and help in determining the best course of action for treatment. X-rays and other imaging solutions may be used to examine the area and decide if a filling is best. If you live in the Phoenix, AZ community and are interested in learning more, connect with our dentist, Dr. John Pappas, by calling 602-957-9643 to request a visit.
