The last thing patients want to hear at a dental appointment is that they have a cavity that needs treatment, but with the proper preparation and care you don’t need to worry. Our friendly and skilled staff at Mountain Aire Dentistry will help prepare you so that you know exactly what to expect during the procedure. If you have questions or concerns, voice them to Dr. Bockrath or a member of his team so we can put you at ease.  We strive to make you as comfortable as possible during treatment. Treating cavities when they are found is essential.  Don’t delay treatment allowing them to grow bigger.  We will help your treatment process go smoothly and quickly.

Why is Cavity Treatment Necessary?

The first thing you need to know for diagnosing/preventing cavities is what they are.  Tooth decay, caries, or the commonly used term, cavities, are holes in the two outer layers of your tooth called the enamel and the dentin.  The white, hard surface on the outside of your tooth is the enamel and the yellow layer just below is the dentin. Your enamel and dentin work together to protect the inner living tooth tissue called the pulp which houses the blood vessels and nerves of your tooth.  When decay reaches the dentin of your tooth, you have to take action quickly to keep the decay from spreading. Decay spreads more quickly through dentin because it is much softer than enamel. When decay reaches the dentin, treatment can’t be avoided.   A small cavity can be repaired with either an amalgam filling (composed of silver and other metals) or a tooth-colored resin material. Dr. Bockrath uses composite resin fillings. Read on to learn more about them!

Understanding Dental Fillings

A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay or trauma back to its normal function and shape. If you have a tooth that requires a filling, the dentist will first remove any decayed tooth material, clean the affected area, and then fill the cleaned out cavity with a filling material. A filling also helps prevent further decay by closing off any cracks or spaces where bacteria can enter.

Composite resins are our filling material of choice because they provide good durability and resistance to fractures.  Composite fillings withstand moderate pressure from chewing food and can be used on either front or back teeth.  They are commonly preferred over silver fillings because they look much more natural and are rendered invisible to the naked eye.  Composite resin fillings are custom-made to the exact color of your natural teeth, creating a more natural appearance. Composite resins are much better than silver fillings.  The edges of silver fillings can wear down and break over time leaving your tooth vulnerable to future tooth decay.  With age, the metal of a silver filling expands, contracts, and can split. Also, silver fillings contain 50 percent mercury. They can corrode, leak and cause stains on your teeth and gums.

Watch Out for These Common Signs of a Cavity

Catching cavities while they are small is the best-case scenario.  Here are some common signs that may indicate that you have one. If you have any of these symptoms, don’t delay! Call and make an appointment today for diagnosis and prevention. The common symptoms are:

• Fracturing teeth
• Sensitivity to biting pressure
• Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
• Toothache or a dull pain in your mouth.
• Teeth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
• Visible holes or pits in your teeth or discoloration
• Chalky white spots on your teeth

Call for a Cavity Prevention Appointment

If you are suspicious that you might have a cavity, or would like to learn how you can prevent cavities from occurring, call our office at (303) 731-7755. We will get you in as soon as possible. The best way to prevent cavities is from excellent education, regular oral hygiene habits, regular dental check-ups, and diet adjustments. Dr. Bockrath is highly skilled and trained to provide a variety of dental services.  Our office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure you receive the best possible care.  We are located in Broomfield, CO with convenient access to the communities of Thornton, Broomfield, Northglenn and Westminster.