A hole that can grow larger and deeper over time is known as a cavity. The main cause of cavities is plaque, a sticky substance that’s comprised mainly of germs that lead to tooth decay. When an excessive amount of plaque accumulates on your teeth, you may face a cavity. Unfortunately, you cannot correct a cavity on your own and will need to get a filling by a dentist.
During a filling, a dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the part of your mouth they are treating. Once the area is completely numb, the dentist will use a special drill or laser to get rid of the tooth decay. Next, they’ll fill or shape the area in order to prepare the space for a filling. A light will be used to harden the filling material and the procedure will end when the dentist polishes the filling to get remove any sharp edges.
Although a cavity filling may seem like it’s a complex, involved procedure, it’s actually fairly simple and comes with virtually no pain or discomfort. After a filling, you may experience some tooth sensitivity. Every time you eat foods that are very hot or very cold or bite down, you may experience a bit of discomfort. The good news is that this side effect typically resolves on its own within a few weeks.
In the event you notice tooth pain after a cavity, be sure to contact your dentist right away. Tooth pain may arise if the filling doesn’t properly fit the tooth or develops cracks. If you believe you have tooth pain that’s the result of a cracked or poorly-fitted filling, reach out to your dentist.
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For more information on what to expect from a cavity filling and to figure out whether you need one, we encourage you to contact our Richmond, VA office today at 804-262-1060. We look forward to hearing from you!