FILLING

Filling

Cavities are damaged areas on the hard surface of your teeth that develop tiny openings or holes. These holes fill with bacteria, creating infections. If cavities are left untreated, they spread further into the tooth and onto adjacent teeth, worsening the situation. Cavities can cause severe toothaches, infections that lead to an abscess, or, in the worst cases, tooth loss. 

To preserve as much healthy enamel as possible,

we recommend treating tooth decay as early as possible. At Kuraby Dentists, we use a minimally invasive white filling to take care of cavities. The white composite fillings are matched to your natural teeth, seamlessly blending them with the tooth structures around them. They’re a great alternative to silver amalgam restorations, especially when treating any front teeth or teeth that are visible when you smile. Plus, white fillings are entirely free of mercury, making them the safest choice for cavity treatment. 

How Can I Tell If I Have A Cavity? 

Most of the time, you can only feel tooth decay once it’s reached a serious to severe stage, where the bacterial infection will cause extreme pain. The key to minimising damage is to catch cavities early enough so your dentist can fill your tooth before the pain and other symptoms start. Smaller fillings aren’t just better for your teeth; they’re also more affordable, so they’re better for your wallet too! Once we understand the extent of the cavity, the team at Kuraby Dentists will be able to recommend a course of treatment that suits your needs and budget. 
  • Typically, the only way to know for sure that you have a cavity is to have your dentist examine the tooth and x-ray the affected area. In the x-ray, we can see the tooth structures to determine the extent of the damage not visible from the outside. Other signs you may have a cavity include;
    • Sensitivity to temperature changes (are hot drinks or cold treats particularly painful?)
    • Pain when chewing or eating certain foods
    • A sharp or dull ache in a specific area or tooth
    • Visible discolouration
    • Feeling a rough edge on the tooth with your tongue
    • Feeling food getting caught between or inside your teeth
    • Floss catching or shredding around a tooth
    • Localised areas where your gums bleed easily 

How To Prevent Cavities 

  • Aside from brushing twice a day and flossing daily, there are a few things you can do to minimise your chances of getting cavities.
    • Learn how to clean your teeth properly. Most people understand the basics of good teeth brushing, but many cut corners in their daily routines. If you learn how to brush and floss properly, you’ll save yourself a lot of pain in the long run. Ask your friendly dental expert at Kuraby Dentists to show you the correct technique for effective cleaning. 
    • Drink plenty of tap water. Next time you reach for a bottle of spring water, consider filling a cup from the tap instead. Most tap water contains added fluoride, which can help reduce tooth decay. 
    • Avoid snacking or drinking throughout the day. Every time you eat or drink anything other than water, your mouth creates acid that can destroy tooth enamel. So if you snack or drink throughout the day, your teeth are constantly under attack. 
    • Choose your food and drinks wisely. Some food and drinks are better than others for tooth health. Avoid foods that get stuck in the grooves of your teeth for long periods, or brush your teeth soon after eating. Try to avoid drinks that are high in acidities like soft drinks, energy drinks, or juice. Instead, choose to drink unsweetened coffee, tea, or water to balance the acidity levels in your mouth. 
    • Rinse your mouth after cleaning. If you find you get cavities quite regularly, you may need to use a fluoride mouthwash after brushing and flossing. 
    • Visit Kuraby Dentists regularly. We recommend that most people visit their dentist for a check-up every 12 months. However, depending on your age and the condition of your teeth, you may need to visit your dentist twice or three times a year to keep your smile sparkling. 
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