What Are Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths, are small deposits of debris that can accumulate in the tonsils’ crevices. This debris can include mucus, dead cells, bacteria and food particles, which can harden over time and form stones. They can vary in size and are often the culprits behind bad breath or a persistent sore throat.

Can Dentists Remove Tonsil Stones?

So, the big question: Will your dentist remove tonsil stones? In short, yes, dentists can help with tonsil stones, but they might also refer you to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist, depending on the severity and persistence of the stones.

How Are Tonsil Stones Treated?

-Manual Removal: For smaller stones, a dentist or dental hygienist can often remove them during a routine check-up using a dental tool. This process is usually quick and painless.

-Water Irrigation: At home, you can use a low-pressure water irrigator (like a Waterpik) to gently dislodge tonsil stones. However, it’s important to use a low setting to avoid damaging your tonsils.

-Medical Intervention: If tonsil stones are a recurring problem and causing significant discomfort, a medical professional might suggest more permanent solutions. An ENT specialist could recommend treatments like laser tonsil cryptolysis, where the crevices in the tonsils are smoothed out to prevent stones from forming, or a tonsillectomy, the surgical removal of the tonsils.

Preventing Tonsil Stones

Preventing tonsil stones starts with good oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing, along with using mouthwash, can help reduce the debris that contributes to stone formation. Staying hydrated is also key, as it helps keep saliva flowing and prevents bacteria from hanging around.

Final Thoughts

While tonsil stones can be annoying and sometimes embarrassing, they’re generally not harmful. If you’re dealing with tonsil stones and they’re bothering you, a visit to your dentist is a great first step. They can provide advice, treatment and if needed, refer you to an ENT specialist for further evaluation.

Remember, your dental health is closely linked to your overall well-being, so taking care of your mouth is crucial. Keep up with your dental hygiene, stay hydrated and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you’re concerned about tonsil stones or any other dental issues. Your health is worth it!

Contact Us

Do you have more questions about tonsil stones or even have tonsil stones that need removal? Contact Fundamental Dental today to schedule a consultation at (972) 360-0096 or contact us today at info@fundental.com with our dedicated dentist. Let us help you navigate your insurance benefits and find the best path to a beautiful, healthy smile!

The post Can Dentists Remove Tonsil Stones? A Simple Guide to Understanding Your Options first appeared on Fundamental Dental.

1-Boost Your Self-Confidence

Let’s start with the obvious. A straight, well-aligned smile boosts your self-confidence. It’s about feeling good every time you look in the mirror and not hesitating to smile in photos or when meeting new people. The psychological benefits of smiling more can significantly impact your daily life, making you appear more approachable, friendly and confident.

2-Improves Oral Health

Straight teeth are not just about aesthetics; they play a crucial role in your oral health. Crowded or crooked teeth create nooks and crannies that are hard to reach with your toothbrush or floss, making them breeding grounds for bacteria and plaque. This can lead to gum disease, tooth decay and even tooth loss over time. Straight teeth, on the other hand, are easier to clean, reducing your risk of these dental issues.

3-Enhances Digestion

You might not have thought about this one, but the alignment of your teeth can affect your digestion. Chewing is the first step in the digestive process, and misaligned teeth can impede your ability to chew food properly. This can lead to digestion issues since larger pieces of food require more effort from your digestive system to break down.

4-Reduces Wear and Tear

Misaligned teeth can cause uneven wear and tear. Some teeth might take more force when you bite or chew, leading to premature wear, chipping or even fractures over time. Straightening your teeth helps distribute biting pressure evenly, protecting your teeth from excessive wear.

5-Decreases Jaw Pain and Headaches

Misalignment can also put extra stress on your jaw joints and muscles, leading to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), chronic jaw pain and even headaches. By straightening your teeth, you can alleviate this stress and reduce the occurrence of these painful symptoms.

Making the Decision

Deciding to straighten your teeth is a personal choice and one that comes with many factors to consider, including cost, the length of treatment and the method of straightening (traditional braces, clear aligners, etc.). However, the long-term benefits—ranging from improved oral health to boosted self-confidence—make it a worthwhile investment for many.

Remember, it’s never too late to start. With advances in dental technology, orthodontic treatments have become more efficient, discreet and comfortable than ever before. If you’re considering straightening your teeth, a consultation with an orthodontic certified dentist can provide you with personalized advice and options that fit your lifestyle and budget.

In essence, straightening your teeth is more than just achieving a beautiful smile; it’s about enhancing your quality of life. Whether it’s for health reasons, confidence, or comfort, the journey to a straighter smile is a step towards not only looking your best but feeling your best too.

Contact Us

Do you have more questions about clear aligners, braces and even insurance coverage? Please contact our Fundamental Dental team today to schedule a consultation at (972) 360-0096 or info@fundental.com. Let us help you navigate your smile journey and find the best path to a beautiful, healthy smile! 

The post Why Should I Straighten My Teeth? The Smile You Deserve first appeared on Fundamental Dental.

What is a Dental Bone Graft?

First off, a dental bone graft is a procedure used to enhance or rebuild the bone in your jaw. When you lose a tooth or have periodontal disease, the bone around the missing tooth can start to deteriorate. A bone graft adds bone or bone-like materials to that area to promote bone growth and provide a solid foundation for dental implants or other treatments.

Reasons for Needing a Dental Bone Graft

-Tooth Loss: Losing a tooth can lead to loss of bone mass in your jaw. Your jawbone needs the stimulation it gets when your teeth touch to maintain its form and density. Without a tooth in place, the bone area begins to atrophy or shrink. A bone graft can help rebuild this bone if you’re considering a dental implant for tooth replacement.

-Periodontal Disease: Advanced gum disease can also lead to the deterioration of the bone in your jaw. This disease damages the soft tissue and can destroy the bone that supports your teeth, leading to tooth loss. A bone graft may be necessary to repair and regenerate the lost bone and support the remaining teeth.

-Dental Implants: For a dental implant to be successful, there must be sufficient bone to anchor the implant. If there’s not enough bone, a bone graft can provide the necessary support. This is often the case when teeth have been missing for some time, and bone resorption has occurred.

-To Preserve Tooth Extraction Sites: Sometimes, a dentist will recommend a bone graft immediately after tooth extraction to preserve the bone in that area. This proactive approach can help maintain the bone structure, making future dental implants easier and more successful.

Types of Bone Graft Materials

Bone grafts can be made from different materials, including:

• Autograft: Bone taken from your own body, usually from another area in your jaw or elsewhere.
• Allograft: Bone sourced from a human donor.
• Xenograft: Bone from another species, typically bovine (cow).
• Alloplastic grafts: Synthetic materials that encourage bone growth.

What to Expect During a Bone Graft Procedure

The procedure typically involves the dentist making an incision in your gum to expose the bone beneath. Then, the graft material is added to the needed areas. Over time, your body will replace the graft material with its own bone, restoring the jawbone’s strength and stability.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from a bone graft can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Generally, patients can expect some soreness and swelling, which can be managed with pain relief medications and ice packs. Your dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions to ensure the best healing and outcome.

Final Thoughts

A dental bone graft is a foundation-building procedure that sets the stage for further dental work, ensuring your jawbone is strong and healthy enough to support implants or other treatments. While the idea of a bone graft might seem daunting, it’s a common and safe procedure that plays a crucial role in dental restoration and health. If you’re facing the possibility of a bone graft, understanding why it’s needed and what to expect can help ease any concerns and prepare you for a successful dental journey.

Contact Us

If you think you may need a bone graft or need a second opinion as to why you would need a bone graft, we welcome you call us to set up your consultation! Contact Fundamental Dental today to schedule a consultation at (972) 360-0096 or info@fundental.com. Let us help you navigate your insurance benefits and find the best path to a beautiful, healthy smile

The post Understanding Dental Bone Grafts: Why Might You Need One? first appeared on Fundamental Dental.

Understanding Gum Measurements

The process of measuring your gums is known as periodontal charting. Your dentist or hygienist uses a small, ruler-like tool called a probe to gently measure the depth of the pockets around each tooth. These pockets are the spaces between your teeth and gums where bacteria can gather and cause infections.

The Importance of Pocket Depth

Healthy gums fit snugly around your teeth, with pocket depths typically ranging from 1 to 3 millimeters. When these pockets are deeper than 3 millimeters, it can be a sign of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Gum disease starts as gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis, leading to more serious issues, including tooth loss. Getting regular dental checkups and cleanings helps spot gum disease in the early stages when it is most easy and least invasive to treat.

Why Measuring Matters

-Early Detection: By measuring your gums regularly, the dentist can catch signs of gum disease early on. Again, this is crucial because early-stage gum disease is much easier to treat and can often be reversed with proper oral hygiene and routine cleanings.

-Tracking Progress: If you’re being treated for gum disease, these measurements help your dentist monitor how well the treatment is working. It’s a way to see if the pockets are getting shallower, indicating that your gums are healing and reattaching to your teeth.

-Preventing Complications: Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth; it’s linked to other health issues like diabetes, heart disease and stroke so keeping your gums healthy helps protect your overall health.

What the Numbers Mean

-1-3mm with no bleeding: Your gums are healthy!

-4-5mm with bleeding: Signs of gingivitis. You might need to improve your brushing and flossing routine.

-5mm and above with bleeding: This could indicate periodontitis, requiring more intensive treatment, such as scaling and root planing or a gingivectomy.

The Bottom Line

Measuring your gums is a quick and painless part of your dental checkup that plays a big role in maintaining your oral health. It’s not just about keeping your teeth in place; it’s about preventing a chain reaction that can affect your entire body’s well-being. Remember, diligent oral hygiene at home and attending regular dental checkups and cleanings are your best defense against gum disease. So, the next time your dentist or hygienist measures your gums, know that they’re doing much more than just poking around—they’re making sure your smile stays healthy and bright for years to come.

We Can Help

If you have bleeding gums and possible signs of gum disease, we invite you to schedule an examination with our dentist. Contact Fundamental Dental by calling (972) 360-0096 or emailing info@fundental.com. We are here to help, and are ready to assist you with your insurance benefits so you can get the dental care you need!

The post Why Your Dentist Measures Your Gums: A Simple Explanation first appeared on Fundamental Dental.

1-Education and Training

Becoming a dentist is no walk in the park. It requires years of education and training, including undergraduate studies, dental school, and often additional specialization courses. This education is expensive, and many dentists graduate with significant student loan debt that they need to pay off, which can influence the cost of their services.

2-High-Quality Equipment and Materials

Dentistry involves more than just a chair and a few tools. Modern dental practices use advanced technology and high-quality materials to provide the best care possible, from digital X-rays and 3D imaging to top-notch dental implants and crowns. This equipment is costly to purchase and maintain, which contributes to higher operational costs for dental clinics.

3-Sterilization and Safety Procedures

Ensuring a sterile environment is crucial in dentistry to prevent infections and cross-contamination. This requires strict sterilization protocols and the use of disposable items that can only be used once, such as gloves, masks and needles. These safety measures add to the overall cost of dental care.

4-Personalized Care

Dental treatments are not one-size-fits-all. Each patient requires personalized care based on their unique dental health needs. This individualized approach means that treatments can’t be rushed, limiting the number of patients a dentist can see in a day and, as a result, increasing the cost.

5-Insurance and Administrative Costs

Navigating insurance claims and paperwork adds an administrative burden to dental practices. The time and resources spent dealing with insurance companies and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations are significant and can contribute to higher costs for patients, especially those without dental insurance.

6-Preventive Care vs. Reactive Treatment

Preventive care, such as regular check-ups and cleanings, can help avoid costly treatments down the line. However, many people skip these preventive measures due to cost or fear of the dentist, leading to more significant issues that are expensive to treat. This reactive approach to dental care can drive up costs for both patients and dentists.

Final Thoughts

While it’s true that dental care can be expensive, understanding the reasons behind the costs can help patients appreciate the value of the services they receive. Remember, investing in your dental health is crucial for your overall well-being. To manage costs, consider preventive care, explore different insurance options, or ask your dentist about payment plans or sliding scale fees based on income. Taking care of your teeth is a vital part of taking care of your health, and it’s worth finding ways to make it affordable.

Contact Us

If you are looking for a more affordable option at the dentist, contact Fundamental Dental today to schedule a consultation at (972) 360-0096 or contact us via info@fundental.com. Let us help you make the most of your insurance benefits and find the best path to a find the best path to a beautiful, healthy smile you can be proud of! 

The post Why Are Dentists So Expensive? A Simple Explanation for Everyone first appeared on Fundamental Dental.

General Dentists: Your First Stop

Many general dentists offer dental implant services, especially if the procedure is straightforward. General dentists can manage the entire process, from the initial consultation to the placement of the crown, bridge or denture on top of the implant. They are well-equipped to handle the process, especially for patients with good oral health and sufficient bone density to support the implant. Your best option may be a general dentist as they will not only place the implant in but also place the crown that is to be placed right above it.

Oral Surgeons: The Experts in Complex Cases

Oral surgeons specialize in surgery of the mouth, face and jaws. They are particularly well-suited to handle more complex dental implant cases, such as those requiring bone grafting or the placement of multiple implants. Oral surgeons have extensive training in the surgical aspects of dental implant placement and are adept at managing the intricacies of oral anatomy to ensure successful outcomes.

Periodontists: Focusing on the Gums and Bones

Periodontists specialize in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, and in the placement of dental implants. They have a deep understanding of the structures supporting the teeth, including the gums and jaw bones. For patients with issues related to these areas, such as gum disease, a periodontist may be the best choice for implant placement. They can address the underlying periodontal issues while also working on the implant, ensuring the healthiest foundation possible for the new tooth.

Prosthodontists: The Architects of Your Smile

Prosthodontists specialize in the restoration and replacement of lost or damaged teeth. While they often work in collaboration with oral surgeons or periodontists for the surgical aspect of implant placement, prosthodontists are experts in designing and fitting the artificial teeth (crowns, bridges, or dentures) that attach to the implants. They ensure that the final result not only looks natural but also functions seamlessly with your bite.

Making the Right Choice

Deciding on the right dental professional for your implant procedure depends on several factors, including the complexity of your case and your specific dental health needs. In many cases, your journey may involve a team approach, with different specialists working together to achieve the best outcome.

For straightforward implant procedures, your general dentist may be able to handle everything. However, for more complex situations or if you have specific oral health issues, being referred to a specialist like an oral surgeon, periodontist or prosthodontist might be necessary.

Final Thoughts

Dental implants are a significant investment in your oral health, and choosing the right dental professional is crucial to ensuring a successful outcome. Whether your path leads you to a general dentist or a specialist, what is important is finding a provider you trust and who has the experience and skills necessary to meet your needs. With the right team, you can achieve a restored smile that looks and feels great.

Contact Us

Do you have a problem tooth that you would like removed and replaced with a dental implant? Or maybe a missing tooth that you would now like to consider replacing with a dental implant? Contact our Fundamental Dental team today to schedule a consultation at (972) 360-0096 or email us at info@fundental.com. We are also happy to help you navigate your insurance benefits so you can find the optimal path to a beautiful, healthy smile!

The post Simplifying Dental Implants: Who Does Them? first appeared on Fundamental Dental.

General Dentists: Your First Point of Contact

For most people, the journey to getting dentures starts with a visit to their general dentist. General dentists are equipped to handle a wide range of dental care needs, including the initial assessment for dentures. They can determine whether dentures are the best solution for your dental issues and can provide you with conventional full or partial dentures depending on your needs. General dentists take impressions of your mouth to create dentures that fit comfortably and function well. They also play a crucial role in the adjustment period, helping you get used to your new dentures and making any necessary tweaks for a perfect fit.

Prosthodontists: The Denture Specialists

If your case is more complex or you’re looking for advanced options like implant-supported dentures, a prosthodontist might be the specialist you need. Prosthodontists receive additional training in the restoration and replacement of teeth, making them experts in creating dentures that look natural and fit precisely. Prosthodontists can handle challenging cases, such as those requiring intricate adjustments to ensure optimal function and aesthetics. They work closely with you to select the best materials and design, ensuring your dentures enhance your appearance and improve your oral health.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing between a general dentist and a prosthodontist often comes down to your specific needs and the complexity of your case. For many people, a general dentist can provide excellent denture care, from initial consultation to final fitting. However, if you’re facing unique challenges or seeking specialized denture solutions, a prosthodontist may offer the expertise you need.

Final Thoughts

Getting dentures is a significant step toward improving your quality of life, and knowing which dental professional to turn to is the first step in that journey. Whether you choose a general dentist or a prosthodontist, what’s important is finding a provider you trust and feel comfortable with. Remember, the goal is to restore your smile and confidence, and the right dental professional will guide you through the process, ensuring your new dentures meet your expectations and needs.

Contact Us

Do you have multiple missing teeth and are considering dentures or even implants? Our Fundamental Dental team is excited to help you restore your smile. You can schedule a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Jacob Kuruvilla, by calling (972) 360-0096 or emailing us at info@fundental.com. We love helping patients achieve the smile they desire and deserve. We are also prepared to help you navigate your insurance benefits to achieve your find the best path to a beautiful, healthy smile.

The post Navigating the World of Dentures: Which Dentist Should You Visit? first appeared on Fundamental Dental.

General Dentists: Your Go-To for Basic Root Canal Treatments

For many patients, the journey to a root canal starts with their general dentist. General dentists are well-equipped to perform root canal treatments, especially for cases that are straightforward and involve teeth that are easier to access, like your front teeth. The process involves removing the infected or damaged pulp inside your tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the inner chambers, and then filling and sealing the tooth to prevent further infection.

General dentists handle a wide variety of dental treatments daily, including root canals. They’re skilled in ensuring that the procedure is as comfortable and pain-free as possible, using sedation dentistry, via local anesthesia to numb the area effectively.

Endodontists: The Root Canal Specialists

For more complex cases, such as those involving molars with multiple roots or teeth with complicated root structures, you might be referred to an endodontist. Endodontists are dentists who’ve undergone additional training specifically focused on treating the inside of the tooth. This specialization includes performing root canals and dealing with diseases of the dental pulp and surrounding tissues. Endodontists are experts in managing pain and can navigate the intricate anatomy of tooth roots with precision. They have access to specialized equipment, like microscopes and advanced imaging techniques, that allow them to see the tiniest details inside your tooth and ensure the treatment is thorough and successful.

Making the Right Choice for Your Dental Health

The decision on whether to see a general dentist or an endodontist for a root canal often depends on the complexity of your dental issue and the recommendation of your dentist. If your case is straightforward, your general dentist can likely provide the care you need. However, if your situation is more complex or if you’re experiencing severe pain, seeing an endodontist might be the best route to ensure you get the specialized care required for the best outcome.

Final Thoughts

Understanding who performs root canals can alleviate some of the anxiety surrounding the procedure. Whether your treatment is carried out by a general dentist or an endodontist, what’s most important is addressing the issue promptly to relieve pain and save your tooth. With modern techniques and anesthesia, root canal treatments have become more comfortable and effective, allowing you to get back to your life with a healthy smile. Remember, preserving your natural teeth is always the goal, and root canal therapy is a vital tool in achieving that.

We Can Help

Do you have a tooth that has extreme sensitivity or even an infection? Are you worried if your tooth can still be saved with a root canal or needs to be extracted? Contact Fundamental Dental today to schedule a consultation at (972) 360-0096 or at info@fundental.com. Let us help you navigate your insurance benefits and find the best path to a beautiful, healthy smile!

The post Unraveling the Mystery: Who Performs Root Canals? first appeared on Fundamental Dental.

What is Dental Insurance?

Dental insurance is a type of health insurance designed specifically to cover part of the costs associated with dental care. From routine cleanings to more complex procedures, dental insurance can help make taking care of your teeth more affordable.

The Basics: Premiums, Deductibles, Co-pays, and Co-insurance

Premiums are what you pay monthly or annually to have the insurance. Deductibles are the amount you need to pay out of pocket before your insurance starts covering costs. Not all plans have these. Co-pays are fixed amounts you pay for a dental service, with the insurance covering the rest. Co-insurance is a percentage of the treatment cost that you’re responsible for paying after meeting your deductible.

Types of Dental Insurance Plans

Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO): This type requires you to see dentists within a specific network. It usually has no deductibles and low or no co-pays, but your choice of dentists is limited.

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): PPO plans offer more flexibility in choosing a dentist and typically work on a reimbursement model, where you pay upfront, and the insurance company reimburses you a portion of the cost. They often have deductibles and co-pays charged at the end of your visit.

Indemnity Plans: These allow you to see any dentist and are based on a fee-for-service model. You pay upfront, and the insurance company reimburses you a percentage of the cost.

Fee For Service: Alternatively, any procedure that your insurance does NOT cover, will be the patient’s financial responsibility and be on a Fee for Service model or sometimes at a contracted insurance rate if applicable.

Understanding Coverage Levels

Dental insurance plans often categorize services into three levels:

-Preventive: Routine cleanings, exams, and X-rays, usually covered at 100%.
-Basic: Fillings, root canals and extractions, often covered at 70-80%.
-Major: Crowns, bridges, dentures, and sometimes orthodontics, typically covered at 50%.

Annual Maximums

Most dental plans have an annual maximum, which is the most the insurance company will pay for your dental care in one year. Once you hit this limit, you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. Typically the annual maximum for most PPO insurance plans can be around $2000. Orthodontic benefits may be outside of this yearly maximum, but usually is only covered once per lifetime for Braces and Clear Aligners.

Waiting Periods

Some plans include waiting periods for certain services, meaning you’ll have to be enrolled in the plan for a specific amount of time before you’re eligible for coverage on more extensive procedures.

Missing Tooth Clause

The Missing Tooth Clause in dental insurance is a policy provision that excludes coverage for any dental procedures related to replacing a tooth that was missing before the individual obtained the insurance policy. This means if a tooth was lost due to an event or condition prior to the effective date of the insurance coverage, any treatments aimed at replacing that tooth—such as bridges, dentures, or implants—will not be covered by the insurance plan. The rationale behind this clause is to prevent individuals from signing up for insurance specifically because they need an expensive dental procedure for a pre-existing condition. This clause encourages continuous dental coverage and discourages the delay of necessary dental care until after obtaining insurance.

Why Dental Insurance Matters

Investing in dental insurance can save you money in the long run by covering routine visits that prevent bigger, more expensive problems. It also makes managing the cost of unexpected dental issues more manageable.

Final Thoughts

Understanding your dental insurance can take a bit of effort, but it’s worth it. Knowing how your plan works can help you make informed decisions about your dental care and ensure you’re getting the most out of your coverage. Remember, maintaining good oral health is an investment in your overall well-being, and dental insurance is a tool that can help you afford that investment.  Our Fundamental Dental team is happy to schedule a consultation for you. Please call (972) 360-0096 or contact us at info@fundental.com.

The post Dental Insurance Demystified: A Simple Guide to Understanding How It Works first appeared on Fundamental Dental.

Step 1: Diagnosis and X-Rays

First things first, your dentist needs to confirm that you have a cavity. This is usually done during a regular check-up where they visually examine your teeth and may use a small probe to check for soft spots. Often, they’ll also take X-rays to see the extent of the decay, especially if it’s not visible to the naked eye.

Step 2: Numbing the Area

To keep you comfortable during the procedure, your dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth. This usually involves applying a gel to the gum before injecting a local anesthetic. Within a few minutes, the area will feel numb, ensuring you won’t feel any pain during the process.

Step 3: Removing the Decay

Once the area is numb, your dentist uses a drill (or sometimes a laser) to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This might sound intense, but you shouldn’t feel anything more than a slight vibration or pressure. The goal here is to clear out all the decay to prevent further damage to the tooth.

Step 4: Cleaning the Tooth

After all the decay is removed, your dentist will clean the area to prepare it for the filling. This step ensures that no bacteria or debris is left behind that could cause problems down the line.

Step 5: Filling the Tooth

With the tooth cleaned and prepped, it’s time to fill the hole where the decay was. Fillings can be made from various materials, including composite resin (which matches the color of your teeth), amalgam (a durable silver-colored material), gold, or porcelain. Your dentist will fill the cavity and shape the filling to match the contours of your tooth, restoring its original shape and function.

Step 6: Polishing and Adjustments

Finally, your dentist will polish the filling and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite feels natural. This might involve you biting down on a piece of colored paper to mark where your teeth meet, allowing the dentist to fine-tune the filling’s shape.

Prevention: The Best Medicine

While fixing cavities is relatively straightforward, preventing them is even better. Good oral hygiene practices—like brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups—can significantly reduce your risk of developing cavities. If symptoms arise please see our instructional videos on what to expect after you receive your dental filling and we can help resolve them in as little as one appointment!

The Takeaway

Fixing a cavity is a routine and crucial process for maintaining oral health and preventing further issues. If your dentist says you have a cavity, there’s no need to worry. With modern dental techniques, getting a cavity filled is a quick and comfortable  experience. And remember, the best way to deal with cavities is to prevent them from happening in the first place, so keep up with your oral hygiene and regular dental visits.

We Can Help

If you believe that you have a cavity and or hole in your tooth, call us immediately! DO NOT WAIT until there are symptoms of pain, because often it may be too late to fix with just a simple filling once pain starts. We ask our patients to come in even if they feel the slightest sensitivity to hot and cold or sweets that have occurred more than two or three times in the same area. Contact Fundamental Dental today to schedule a consultation at (972) 360-0096 or contact us at info@fundental.com. We are also happy to help you navigate your insurance benefits so you can keep your smile a beautiful, healthy and strong!

The post A Simple Guide to How Dentists Fix Cavities first appeared on Fundamental Dental.