How Does a General Dentist Restore a Smile After Significant Tooth Decay?

Close-up profile side view portrait of his he nice attractive content brown-haired cheerful cheery guyA general dentist can restore a smile after significant tooth decay by performing certain procedures chosen based on the severity of the cavities found. At Taylor Street Dental, Drs. Peck, Homsi, Tyra, and Seo will evaluate your condition and make a recommendation on the best treatment based on your needs.

Below are just a few of the more common approaches taken by our Springfield, MA, team:

  • Fillings. Fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged or decayed because of cavities.
  • Dental crown. A crown is a type of restoration that covers the entire tooth surface down to the gum line.
  • Inlays and onlays. Inlays and onlays are restorations that fit into the grooves of a tooth and provide strength to it.
  • Root canal therapy. Root canal therapy is necessary when there has been damage done to the pulp inside a tooth due to an infection or trauma.

What Happens if My Tooth Decay Is Too Severe for the Above Treatments?

These treatments help protect the remaining tooth structure from further damage or decay and bring back an attractive appearance to the smile. However, if the damage to the natural tooth structure is too severe and complex to perform any of the above treatments, it may be time to consider the permanent extraction of this tooth. Our team will often avoid dental extractions whenever possible, but significant damage to the natural tooth will sometimes warrant removing it if it cannot be repaired effectively. Before removal, Drs. Peck, Homsi, Tyra, and Seo will talk to you about the possible replacement options to consider afterward, including dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants.

What Should I Do if I Suspect I Have Tooth Decay?

The earlier tooth decay is diagnosed and treated, the less likely it is to cause irreparable damage. If you believe that you have a cavity, you must make an appointment at Taylor Street Dental for an evaluation to determine if one is present. Other conditions, such as infections or sensitive teeth, can cause toothaches and discomfort that may mimic tooth decay, so a definitive diagnosis is critical to providing a solution. Call 413-781-7645 to schedule an appointment at their Springfield, MA, area practice.

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