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What Can I Do About a Cavity?

Tooth decay occurs when bacteria etch through your tooth enamel, creating a hole inside of it. These bacteria thrive on the acids and sugars in the foods we eat every day. If a cavity is not treated early on with a small filling, the decay may spread to the nerve, resulting in an abscessed tooth or, in extreme cases, hospitalization.

Dental fillings in Aldie allow for minimally-invasive treatment, preventing the spread of decay into adjacent teeth.

a woman is holding her face in pain because of a toothache .

Symptoms of Tooth Decay

You may believe that the first sign of a cavity is pain or a toothache. Unfortunately, it is not as obvious as that. Although some cavities can and will often cause pain or discomfort, the following are some of the most common symptoms to look out for:

  • Sensitivity to sweets
  • An “off” feeling in your tooth
  • A rough or sharp edge you feel with your tongue
  • Food gets stuck in your teeth during meals
  • Floss shredding or breaking in certain areas
  • A bad taste in your mouth

Types of Dental Fillings

A dental filling is a type of restorative treatment that repairs voids created by tooth decay. These restorations are designed to look like tooth enamel, so that they can be blended seamlessly with your overall tooth structure. It’s always best to detect cavities while they are small, so we recommend intermittent X-rays to screen for infection between teeth, where we can’t see during a visual exam.

Dr. Rivera offers several different types of fillings that offer both oral health and aesthetic appeal.

a woman is looking at her teeth in a mirror at the dentist .

Tooth-Colored Fillings

The most significant benefit of white fillings is that they are the least invasive restorative option for teeth. Because of the way they adhere to enamel, only the damaged structure needs to be removed, preserving as much healthy enamel as possible.

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Tooth Colored Dental Fillings

Tooth-colored dental fillings at Aldie Dental Care provide a natural-looking, durable solution for restoring cavities and minor tooth damage. Made from composite resin, these fillings blend seamlessly with your teeth while preserving strength and function.

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Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth to prevent cavities. This quick, painless procedure creates a barrier against plaque and bacteria, helping to maintain long-term oral health.

FAQ

How long do dental fillings last?
How can I care for my dental filling?
Can I eat right after getting a filling?
Are dental fillings painful?

Early Treatment is Essential

Prevent your cavity from spreading. Give our Aldie dentist a call to schedule your consultation and to discuss which dental filling is best for you!