January is a great time to reflect on the previous year, both the good and the bad. And if part of your last year included some ugly dental issues, like an untreated cavity, or even an infection, then the start of a new calendar year also marks a great time to give your smile a fresh start. Restorative dentistry, like dental fillings, root canal treatment, and other procedures, can help repair damage done and give you a smile that feels and looks healthy, once again. So don’t wait for more months to pass. Call your dentist and ask about your options for restoring your oral health!
When Is a Filling the Answer?
Fillings are one of the most common restorative treatments, by far, due to the overwhelming number of cavities developed each year. In fact, more than 80 percent of adults will experience at least one cavity during his or her lifetime. Fortunately, when dealt with promptly, fillings are highly effective at treating cavities, and protecting the tooth from further decay, infection or loss.
Plus, modern dental fillings can be completed quickly, and with a product made to match natural teeth, so that the resulting restoration doesn’t stick out from your smile like a sore thumb. It creates a natural-looking result most people won’t even notice.
Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is another common procedure that often becomes necessary when a cavity is left untreated for a significant amount of time. Unlike a filling, root canal treatment is more invasive, but it can also be highly effective at restoring oral health.
During this procedure the dentist must first carefully remove any infected portions of the tooth, as well as any debris that has entered it. The tooth must then be tightly sealed, often using a dental crown, which can be both protective and pretty.