My Dentist Spotted a Cavity: What Do I Do?
Options for addressing a cavity depend mainly on the severity of the damage.
Call it what you will—tooth decay, dental caries, or cavities—it is one of the most common dental problems you could experience. Here are the possible options you may have when your dentist announces you have a cavity.
Do Nothing
If the cavity that has been spotted is still very minor, you may choose not to take any action yet. This would only be appropriate if the damage has not yet penetrated all the way through the enamel. With proper oral care, it is possible for the body’s natural remineralization process to strengthen the enamel in the area of the budding cavity and prevent it from growing any worse. If you choose not to get a developing cavity treated, you need to be very vigilant about monitoring the tooth for any pain or sensitivity. At the first sign of a problem, you should visit your dentist for a reassessment.
Get a Silver Amalgam Filling
Silver amalgam fillings, silver fillings, and metal fillings are all names for the traditional means of treating a cavity. Today, metal fillings are used with much less frequency due to concerns about their mercury content. However, they remain a viable option for fillings on molars. Metal fillings are stronger and less expensive than white composite fillings, and when used on back teeth their dark appearance is not so much of an aesthetic concern.
Get a White Composite Filling
If you do not want any amount of mercury in your mouth, you may instead choose to fill your cavity using a white composite material. This metal-free restoration seals a cavity as effectively as an amalgam filling, though it may not last quite as long before requiring replacement. The main advantage of a white composite filling is it can correct your cavity without altering the look of your smile. White composite fillings do not have to be pure white but instead can be tinted to match your natural tooth enamel for a subtle and beautiful solution to cavities.
Get a Crown
If your cavity is especially large or if your tooth as a whole is weak, it may not be possible to get a filling. If this was attempted, the filling would likely crack or break during normal biting or chewing. Instead, you would need a crown to seal the cavity and strengthen the tooth. Crowns may cover just the top of the tooth or the entire tooth all the way down to the gum line, depending on the location of the cavity and the recommendation of your dentist. You can choose either gold or porcelain crowns depending on whether or not you want a natural look. At California Dental Group, we work with an excellent crown provider to ensure our patients get well-fitting, attractive, and durable crowns placed on the first try.
