The most common type of pain-causing infection is a cavity. Almost everyone deals with cavities at some point in their lives. Cavities form when the bacteria on the surface of your tooth start to wear away at the enamel. Eventually, a hole is left behind. This hole will continue to get deeper if you don’t get rid of the bacteria, which is why you may have several cavities if you skip out on dentist appointments for a few years. After your dentist removes the infection, they can restore your tooth with a dental filling, or cap the tooth with a dental crown. Depending on the severity of the infection, your dentist can determine the right course of action for you.
Your teeth aren’t the only place where oral pain can crop up. Just like your teeth, your gums can also become a home for bacterial infection. Bacteria can build up along your gum line and sink beneath it. You’ll notice inflammation, and over time, gingivitis develops. This early form of gum disease can be treated with a deep cleaning. During a deep cleaning, your dentist carefully accesses the area beneath your gum line, removing bacteria and smoothing your tooth roots so that they can reconnect with your jawbone.
If your infection is so severe that it causes tooth loss, or your dentist recommends extraction, you will need a replacement tooth. A gap in your teeth causing shifting in your bite which can lead to premature wear. A dental prosthetic will replace your missing tooth with lifelike accuracy. A dental implant can replace a single missing tooth and restore its function, while a dental bridge is helpful in replacing a series of missing teeth. If your tooth loss is extensive, dentures can be used to replace all of the teeth on a dental ridge.
Your teeth won’t begin to recover until you get rid of the bacteria that are causing problems. You should visit your dentist if you’re experiencing oral pain. At Elm Creek Dental, our friendly staff will help you choose the right restorative dentistry option for your situation. Schedule an appointment at Elm Creek Dental in Maple Grove, MN by contacting the office at 763-416-0606.
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