Tooth decay is something that your Mansfield, TX dentist can spot – and treat – before significant harm occurs. During a routine dental exam, the formation of decay can be identified before you start to experience discomfort. If your only experience with cavities is those that have been caught early, you may not realize just how uncomfortable this oral health issue can become! If you do not keep up with regular exams, a cavity that forms can continue to grow until bacteria gain access to your pulp, the space within your tooth. At this point, those harmful microbes can move through the tooth and damage it so much that it cannot be saved!

Cavities Can Cause Significant Harm To Teeth

If a cavity is given enough time, it can damage your tooth so badly that it must be extracted. Over time, decay will continue to spread, eventually letting bacteria enter the tooth’s central chamber where living tissues are housed. It can be difficult to overlook the problem once this happens, as your infection can lead to an increase in pain and sensitivity. Until it is resolved, your advanced cavity will do more and more harm as bacteria move through the roots of your tooth. By performing a root canal treatment, your dentist will be able to stop the spread of decay and protect you from infection.

Treating Tooth Decay Without Changing Your Smile

Through the appropriate treatment, your dentist will be able to stop your spreading cavity before restoring your tooth. When a cavity is small enough, the process of restoring your tooth can be complete after you receive a discreet, tooth-colored dental filling. If the tooth has to undergo root canal therapy, we can instead use a dental crown to provide protection. For teeth that are harder to hide when you speak and smile, you can receive a crown that matches your tooth structure.

The Role Your Dentist Can Play In Preventing Future Cavities

In addition to helping you when you have a cavity that needs to be treated, we can provide consistent support during your dental exams in order to prevent future issues with decay from developing. We do this during every routine exam by closely evaluating your tooth, and by performing thorough cleanings that remove harmful concentrations of plaque and tartar that are present.

Discuss Your Concerns About Tooth Decay With Your Mansfield, TX Dentist

At our Mansfield, TX dentist’s office, we are prepared to confront issues with tooth decay that affect your oral health. We can offer early intervention when a small cavity is present during a checkup, or we can perform a more involved restorative procedure so that an advanced cavity can be stopped before placing a protective crown over the tooth. Find out more about our services by calling Mansfield Dental Associates at 817-473-6227.