Seattle
Has your dentist ever told you that you have a cavity? Cavities are a result of tooth decay and affect both your tooth enamel and the layer beneath it called the dentin.
Symptoms of Cavities
- Tooth pain without an apparent cause
- Tooth sensitivity
- Holes or pitting in your teeth
- Pain when biting or eating
- Discoloration
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Causes of Cavities
When the bacteria naturally found inside the mouth reacts with carbohydrates in the foods that you eat, an acid forms turns into plaque, which forms an acidic film on your tooth that breaks down the enamel and can lead to tooth decay. If the acids found in the plaque erode enough of the tooth to cause a hole, a cavity has formed. If the cavity remains untreated, an abscessed tooth can result.
Treating Cavities
Cavities permanently damage the affected tooth and must be taken care of to prevent the loss of your natural tooth. However, not all cavities can be treated.
Fillings: A filling comes from composite resins, porcelain, or other materials that are used to close off the decayed hole and prevent further damage at the early stages of decay. Our team will remove the decayed tooth material before filling your cavity.
Crowns: A crown is a cover that replaces your natural tooth surface made from porcelain, composite resin materials, gold, or other materials. Crowns repair more advanced tooth decay. Your dentist will drill away the decayed area of your tooth to fit the crown to your tooth correctly.
Root Canal: During a root canal, the pulp of your tooth will be removed, and your dentist carefully cleans and disinfects the inside of your tooth. After sterilizing your tooth, we seal the opening with a rubber-like material. Finally, we restore your tooth with a crown or filling.
Tooth Extraction: If your tooth is too badly decayed to be saved with a root canal, the tooth will need an extraction. Since this can leave an ample open space, you will need to consider a bridge or dental implant to replace the tooth once removed.
Preventing Cavities
Daily brushing and flossing will help prevent the long-term build-up of plaque that will harden and turn into tartar. By removing the bacteria and build-up of acids that break down your tooth enamel, cavities and tooth decay are less likely to develop.
Our dentists are devoted to providing you with personalized, high-quality dental care for your needs. We examine your teeth to ensure the removal of any cavities or tartar build-up. Afterward, the tooth is sealed to prevent further damage to your natural teeth. Your oral health is our priority!
600 University Street Suite 828 Seattle, WA 98101
A cavity can ruin even the best smile. Learn how to fight off the harmful effects and protect your smile with regular hygiene at Seattle Cornerstone Dental
Our Seattle dental office handles all types of common dental issues.
