Cavities & Fillings NYC FAQ

What will happen if the cavity is left untreated?

Left untreated, acavity can lead to a s left reading pinfection in the tooth, called an abscess. The infection can spread and cause destruction of the tooth and nerve root. This may result in the need for a root canal, or tooth extraction.

Can I heal a cavity without going to the dentist?

Having proper oral hygiene with regular flossing and brushing can often prevent cavities. However, once a cavity develops, the majority of the time it will get worse without treatment.

Can cavities go away?

Cavities just do not go away on their own. When ignored, cavities will continue to grow in size. When cavities get larger, they increase the possibility of teeth cracking and breaking and the tooth may need to be extracted.

Can tooth cavities be fixed?

In order to fix or treat a cavity, it is important to see a dentist. Depending on the severity of the cavity, a dentist can fix a cavity using a filling, a porcelain onlay, a root canal, and/or a crown.

How long do dental fillings last?

Most fillings last 15 years or more. The time can vary based on several factors including if you grind your teeth are not. New composite tooth colored fillings generally last longer than old metallic fillings.

Are dental fillings painful?

Filling a cavity should not be painful. Anesthesia is used in order to prevent discomfort and pain during this procedure.

Which tooth filling is the best?

Newer fillings, called composite fillings, are the best option for filling teeth. They match the color of the tooth, and are less toxic than old-fashioned amalgam or metallic fillings. They also last longer.

Is it good to have fillings in teeth?

Obviously, it is best to have a normal healthy teeth without cavities are fillings. However, when a tooth is damaged by tooth decay, it is important to have a filling to prevent further problems.

How to do the dentist remove old fillings?

Old fillings are removed carefully using hand instruments and drilling. A high volume suction device is utilized to prevent any toxic materials from the old filling from being absorbed.