When suffering from a toothache, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a dentist right away to determine the cause of your discomfort. Tooth pain often results from cavities, which must be filled to curb unwanted symptoms and protect your teeth. If you have this issue, it’s helpful to know what to expect from treatment; here is a quick guide to how the problem is solved. 

How Are Cavities Filled?

1. Numb the Area

To begin the process, a dentist will spray air into your mouth to dry out the area. Afterward, they’ll apply numbing gel followed by an injection of a localized anesthetic, so you experience minimal discomfort while they tend to the cavities. 

2. Remove Plaque 

Before they focus on the tooth or teeth that need treatment, they’ll start by removing any bacteria, or plaque they find in the area. Doing so also prevents undesirable elements from getting trapped during the filling.

3. Remove Tooth Decay

Next, the dentist will use a special drill to remove any decay from your tooth. A dental hygienist will be in the room at the same time, providing suction so that the area stays as dry as possible. 

4. Apply the Filling 

Once all decay is removed and your mouth is cleaned, the dental team will apply a filling to restore the shape of your tooth. These can be composed of a variety of hard materials, from composite resin to gold, porcelain, or hard plastic. 

5. Check the Bite 

After the process is complete, the dentist will ask you to bite down on a piece of carbon paper. By doing so, they ensure the filling is the proper height and that you’ll be able to bite and chew with ease moving forward. 

If you have cavities, address the issue right away before it worsens. iCare Dentistry has established a stellar reputation throughout Gwinnett County, GA, for providing top-notch family dental care. For an experienced and compassionate dentist who makes every patient feel comfortable while achieving their dream smile, call the office today at (770) 609-6106 to schedule an appointment. For more information on how they can soothe a toothache, tend to cavities, or help prevent gum disease, visit their practice online.