Cavities are holes in your teeth caused by plaque and bacteria. Dr. Hung T. Chau of Sunshine Dental, located in Houston, Texas, is an expert in applying fillings to prevent further damage and possible tooth loss caused by cavities. Cavities should always be treated as soon as possible. Schedule an appointment online or call Dr. Chau’s office for superior diagnosis and treatment.
Cavities Q & A
What are the symptoms of a cavity?
The common symptoms of a cavity are:
- Sudden tooth sensitivity
- Tooth pain
- Visible brown or black spots
If you experience any or all of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with Dr. Chau to see if you require a filling.
What is a filling?
A filling is a method Dr. Chau uses to restore a tooth, that is decaying or damaged, back to its original form. He removes the decayed tooth and debris, cleans it of bacteria, and fills the cleaned cavity with the filling.
How do I know if I need a filling?
One sign is tooth sensitivity, but that’s a symptom of many other tooth-related issues. Cavities are difficult to detect on your own. That’s why you should schedule an appointment with Dr. Chau. He can determine whether you have a cavity and may recommend a filling based on your examination. He may suggest X-rays to see the extent of the tooth decay. If the decayed tooth is left untreated, it can worsen and require more extensive treatment than a filling — such as root canal therapy.
What can I do to prevent cavities?
It’s easier to prevent a cavity than it is to treat it. Preventing a cavity is quite simple. It’s important to brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, every day. Don’t neglect to floss your teeth at least once a day. It’s also recommended that your teeth be professionally cleaned by Dr. Chau every six months. But even if you have good dental hygiene, a cavity may still develop.
What happens when I get a filling?
Dr. Chau numbs the tooth and the surrounding area with a local anesthetic. He removes every piece of decay from the tooth with the appropriate tools. The filling material is applied to the tooth and then sealed. At this point, he shapes the filling so it naturally fits your mouth without irritating it.
What happens after the filling procedure is finished?
During the first few days, your tooth may be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. That’s normal and should subside shortly. The filled tooth is like any other natural tooth in your mouth. To keep it healthy, follow proper dental hygiene methods such as brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash to eliminate bacteria.