If you find yourself dissatisfied with your smile due to concerns like chipped or discolored teeth, cosmetic dentistry may offer a solution. However, it’s crucial to address any underlying oral health issues before proceeding with treatment. This includes assessing the presence of periodontal disease and tooth decay. The importance of these treatments lies in establishing a strong and healthy foundation for your teeth, capable of supporting any desired cosmetic dental enhancements in the future. Keep reading to understand the necessity of undergoing gum disease therapy or cavity repair before engaging in cosmetic dental procedures.
What Are Cavities?
Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are areas of damage to the hard surface of the teeth caused by the acids produced by bacteria. These bacteria thrive on the sugars and carbohydrates present in food and drinks, producing acids that erode the enamel—the protective outer layer of the teeth.
Over time, the enamel breaks down, creating small openings or cavities. If left untreated, cavities can progress deeper into the tooth, affecting the inner layers and leading to pain, infection, and potential tooth loss.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease often results from insufficient oral hygiene practices, leading to a gum infection. However, factors such as hormonal changes, medical conditions like cancer and HIV, medications causing reduced saliva production, smoking, and genetic predisposition can also play a role in its development.
In the first phase, identified as gingivitis, there is evident inflammation of the gums, which tend to bleed readily during brushing. If neglected, this condition may advance to a more critical stage known as periodontitis. Furthermore, the infection could potentially spread through the bloodstream, heightening the likelihood of cardiovascular problems or strokes.
How They Can Impact the Look of Your Smile
Periodontitis can lead to symptoms such as gum recession, regular bleeding, and inflammation, resulting in teeth appearing larger due to increased enamel exposure. Moreover, as the gums and bone recede from the teeth, pockets form, collecting debris and fostering infections. Prolonged neglect of these conditions may ultimately result in tooth loss as the teeth lose their secure anchorage.
Cavities can affect the appearance of your smile, causing discoloration, changes in tooth shape, and visible pits or holes in advanced stages. Seeking prompt dental care is essential to maintain a visually appealing and healthy smile.
Available Treatment Options
Scaling and root planing are effective treatments that eliminate bacteria and plaque around the gums and tooth roots. Scaling removes buildup around the gums, while root planing reshapes tooth roots to prevent future plaque accumulation. Combining scaling and root planing with Periostat antibiotic therapy enhances the treatment, promoting oral health and paving the way for a radiant smile.
Treatment options for cavities typically involve removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling the space with a restorative material. Dental fillings are commonly used to repair cavities. For more extensive decay, dental crowns may be recommended to cover and protect the damaged tooth. In advanced cases, when the cavity affects the tooth’s pulp, a root canal procedure may be necessary to remove the infected pulp and save the tooth.
About the Practice
Huckabee Dental, situated in Southlake, prioritizes holistic oral health care, emphasizing the importance of establishing a healthy foundation before delving into cosmetic dentistry services. Our expertise encompasses gum disease and cavity treatments, ensuring your oral health is optimal before any cosmetic procedures. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment with Huckabee Dental or would like to gain further insights into their comprehensive treatments, reach out to their office at (817) 329-4746 or visit their website.