From toothaches to visible holes, there are several signs of cavities you should watch out for to catch a problem as soon as it arises. Of course, knowing how to spot a cavity isn’t the same as knowing what to do next!
Well, it turns out, it’s simple: what you should do if you think you have a cavity is schedule a dentist appointment.
Keep reading to learn more about what you should do if you think you have a cavity, and how your San Juan family dentist can help.
Why You Should See a Dentist as Soon as You Suspect a Cavity
A cavity is a type of permanent damage to your teeth caused by plaque, sugary foods, or poor dental habits. The biggest reason why you should see your dentist as soon as you think you have a cavity is that these tiny pits or holes get worse over time. If left untreated, cavities can continue to grow, sometimes even leading to cracked teeth. Cavities can cause painful and uncomfortable symptoms, so getting care quickly is very important.
If you think you have a cavity and you don’t go to the dentist, you could also end up paying more in the long run for more significant care.
Treatment Options for Cavities
If you think you have a cavity, you should see your San Juan family dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will examine your teeth and determine which treatment option is right for you.
Cavities can be treated in several ways depending on their severity:
- Fillings — Fillings are the most common treatment for cavities that are developed enough to need medical care. Fillings are made of either metals, plastics, glass, or some combination and are used to repair the structure of damaged teeth.
- Crowns — A dental crown is used in cases of extensive decay and is a tooth-shaped cap that is positioned over the damaged tooth.
- Root Canals — If your cavity has reached the inner layers of your tooth, a root canal may be done to remove the damaged tissue before filling and sealing the tooth.
- Tooth Extractions — If your tooth has become so decayed that it’s past the point of being restored, you may need to have it extracted. Once your damaged tooth is removed, you may wish to have a dental bridge installed to fill the gap and maintain your smile.
If You Think You Have a Cavity, Come See Your San Juan Family Dentist
Cavities are incredibly common: more than 80% of Americans get at least one cavity by the age of 35. However, just because they’re common doesn’t mean you should not worry about them. If you think you have a cavity, you should see a dentist near you for treatment.
Cavities are no joke. If you suspect you may have a cavity, come see your San Juan family dentists at Heroes Dental for the treatment you need.