If you’re dealing with a decayed tooth, you’re not alone. Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems, and luckily, restorative dentistry at Signature Smile Arts offers plenty of solutions to bring back your smile.
A decayed tooth might seem like a small issue at first, but if left untreated, it can lead to bigger dental problems like infections, pain, and even tooth loss. If you suspect decay, contact Dr. Alex Shore in Homewood, IL, as soon as possible. Just dial (708) 799-5353 for speedy, comfortable care!
If you’re wondering what to do about a decayed tooth, keep reading. In today’s blog, Dr. Shore tells you what you can do to address dental decay and get your oral health back on track.
Fillings: The First Line of Defense
When decay is detected early, a simple filling is often the go-to solution. Our restorative dentist can remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill it with a durable material like composite resin or amalgam.
Fillings not only stop the decay from spreading but also restore the shape and function of your decayed tooth. Best of all, modern fillings blend in beautifully with the natural color of your teeth, keeping your smile looking fresh.
Crowns: For More Extensive Decay
If the decay has damaged a significant portion of your tooth, a filling might not be enough. That’s when a crown comes into play. A crown is a carefully crafted prosthesis that covers the whole decayed tooth, protecting it and reinstating its function.
Crowns are ideal when a decayed tooth has become too weak to handle daily activities like chewing and biting. With the right care, crowns can last for many years, giving you long-term peace of mind.
Root Canal: Saving the Tooth from the Inside
When decay reaches the core of teeth, where nerves and blood vessels reside, a root canal is needed to save the decayed tooth. During this procedure, Dr. Shore removes the infected core, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further damage. Afterward, Dr. Shore usually places a crown on the tooth for added protection.
While root canals may sound intimidating, they are highly effective at saving teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted.
Extraction: When a Tooth Can’t Be Saved
Sometimes, a decayed tooth is too far gone for any restorative methods to work, and extraction becomes the only option. While losing a tooth may seem daunting, it’s important to remove it before it causes more severe health issues. After the extraction, you can explore tooth replacement options like dental implants, bridges, or dentures to restore your smile.
Dental Implants: A Permanent Replacement Option
If a decayed tooth needs to be extracted, dental implants offer a lifelong solution. Implants replace the root of the missing tooth and restore the appearance and function of smiles by placing a custom crown on top.
Implants are a popular choice for many because they look, feel, and function just like an ordinary tooth, giving you a strong and lasting replacement.
Prevent Future Decay at Signature Smile Arts in Homewood, IL
Addressing a decayed tooth is crucial, but preventing future decay is equally important. Regular dental check-ups, proper brushing and flossing, and a diet low in sugary foods all play a role in maintaining your oral health. If you’re prone to cavities, Dr. Shore may also recommend fluoride treatments or dental sealants to protect your teeth from decay.
Don’t let a decayed tooth go untreated. Restorative dentistry in Homewood, IL, offers solutions to fix the problem and get you smiling again. Request a consultation here, or call (708) 799-5353 to explore the best treatment options for your specific needs.
