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Dentists commonly use dental fillings to treat tooth decay. Even though patients can often spot symptoms of decay – particularly if the problem is excessive or obviously painful — not all diagnoses are so simple. Your dentist may need to use advanced techniques, supported by years of clinical experience, to identify subtle forms of decay and suggest appropriate remedies, such as dental fillings.
Typical symptoms of overt tooth decay include cracked teeth and broken lines in the enamel. Nervous habits, like biting your nails or grinding your teeth, may also damage and crack teeth. If your teeth have become darkened or discolored, decay might be prevalent underneath the tooth itself. You might need a root canal or tooth extraction if the decay has reached the nerve.
Your dentist can use a variety of tools and techniques to identify tooth decay related problems and address them safely. For instance, he or she can probe your mouth for soft spots in the enamel or use dyes that color decaying areas. Digital X-rays, meanwhile, allow dentists to observe underneath and between the upper layer of the enamel. Laser aids can detect tiny, concave holes in your teeth, also known as cavities. Dental issues can be slightly more challenging to detect in molars, since molars are, by their nature, bumpy and uneven.
If it’s been a while since you last visited a dentist for regular teeth cleaning and checkups, and you’ve been experiencing pain or sensitivity, please call the Pastel Dental team today at (415) 831-1999. You can also use our convenient online scheduling tool to book your next appointment!
