Tooth decay is the number one chronic disease of children and adults in America. Most people have had at least one by the age of 17. If you have not, you are part of the only 22% cavity-free adults.
To keep a tooth from further decay and erosion, a filling is used to seal the small hole, preventing any bacteria from entering and causing further damage. It is one of the most common dental procedures.
Each visit to Rochon Racicot involves checking to see if there are any cavities. You may not even notice a problem, but it is important for us to check. If left untreated, the decay will only increase. If the decay reaches the pulp or nerve tissue in the root canal, it will cause extreme discomfort. It can eventually result in the loss of a tooth.
We will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth. We then remove any decay and clean the area thoroughly. Tooth-colored porcelain or composite is applied layer by layer. Then we use a special light to allow the material to cure, or set. When all the layers are applied and cured, we shape the filling and remove any excess. A final polish and you are ready to go.