Have you noticed any change in the comfort of your teeth? Do you feel pain or sensitivity when you eat or drink hot or cold foods and beverages? Dr. Benjamin Stevens treats patients with tooth cavities in Greenwood, IN. Dental cavities are holes in the tooth enamel caused by tooth decay.
Decay begins with damage to the outer tooth enamel. Over time, as the enamel deteriorates, holes can form in the teeth. Once the decay reaches inside of the tooth, the infected pulp within the tooth chamber needs to be removed. If the infected nerves and blood vessels that make up the tooth pulp are not removed, patients can lose their teeth. It is important to know the signs of tooth decay and cavities before tooth loss occurs. Dr. Stevens helps prevent cavities in his patients and can also provide dental fillings after the dental infection is removed. He collaborates with his patients for smooth and comfortable treatment.
Signs of Tooth Decay
Other than cavities, there are several symptoms that accompany a dental infection:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold
- White spots on the tooth enamel
- Toothaches and tooth pain
- Bad breath (Halitosis)
- Tooth staining
- Pain when biting and chewing
Contact our office if you have noticed any of these common symptoms of dental decay. We will help remove the infection and clean your tooth to ensure that it is healthy.
Treating and Preventing Cavities
We will recommend a root canal if a dental infection has reached the inside of the tooth. Root canals remove the infected tooth pulp and clean the inner toot chamber. After the tooth is cleaned, Dr. Stevens can provide patients with a dental filling. He uses white fillings, which are made of resin. White fillings are mercury-free and safe for patients. An added benefit of white fillings is that they blend in with the shade of natural teeth. Resin fillings also contain fluoride, a substance that strengthens the tooth enamel and fights against tooth infections.
The best way to prevent cavities is to maintain a good oral hygiene routine and visit the dentist on a regular basis. For the best clean, floss before you brush your teeth. Flossing removes plaque and tartar that can build up between the teeth. At regular dental appointments, Dr. Stevens and his team offer cleanings and x-rays. Dental hygienists can provide patients with a deep clean by removing harmful bacteria from the teeth and gums. Using dental x-rays, we can keep track of the symptoms of tooth decay and hopefully prevent the need for root canals or dental fillings.
Schedule a Dental Appointment
Do you have tooth pain or white spots forming on your teeth? Contact Dr. Stevens for treatment today. New patients can call (317) 886-4512, while current patients may call (317) 888-4044. Patients can also request a dental consultation with Dr. Stevens on our website. Please let Dr. Stevens or a member of his dental team know if you have any remaining questions or concerns. They will help clarify them for you.
