Hearing the words “you have a cavity” during a dental visit can be frustrating, but it’s also an opportunity to address the issue before it worsens.
At Fisher & Zitterich Dentistry in Rockwall, TX, we understand how common adult tooth decay is and how important it is to treat it early. We’re here to provide effective, personalized care that restores the health of your teeth and prevents further damage.
From routine cleanings to advanced restorative procedures, we help patients achieve healthier, decay-free smiles.
What Is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay occurs when the protective enamel on your teeth is damaged by harmful bacteria. These bacteria, often found in plaque, produce acids that erode the enamel, creating cavities. While cavities can form on any tooth surface, they are particularly common in areas that are harder to clean, such as between teeth or in deep grooves on molars.
When left untreated, tooth decay can progress beyond the enamel, reaching the sensitive dentin and pulp layers of the tooth. This can lead to pain, infection, and the potential need for more extensive treatments like root canals or extractions. Understanding the causes and symptoms of tooth decay is the first step in protecting your oral health.
What Causes Tooth Decay?
A healthy mouth contains beneficial bacteria that help neutralize acids and repair minor enamel damage. However, when harmful bacteria accumulate and form plaque, the balance in your mouth is disrupted. Plaque is a sticky film made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva, and it adheres to the surface of your teeth. The acid produced by harmful bacteria in plaque gradually eats away at the enamel, leading to cavities.
Contributing factors to tooth decay include:
- Poor oral hygiene: Irregular brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up.
- Sugary and starchy diets: These foods feed harmful bacteria, accelerating decay.
- Dry mouth: A lack of saliva reduces your mouth’s ability to wash away food particles and neutralize acids.
- Gum disease: Receding gums expose more of your tooth to decay-causing bacteria.
How Is Tooth Decay Treated?
The treatment for tooth decay depends on its severity. At Fisher & Zitterich Dentistry, we offer a range of solutions to address cavities and restore your tooth’s health:
- Fillings: For small to moderate cavities, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the area is filled with a durable material such as composite resin, which is color-matched to your natural teeth.
- Inlays and onlays: For larger cavities that don’t require a full crown, these custom restorations provide additional strength and protection.
- Crowns: When decay has severely weakened the tooth, a crown can restore its structure and functionality.
- Root canals: If decay reaches the pulp of the tooth, a root canal is performed to remove the infected tissue and seal the tooth.
- Extractions and replacements: In cases where the tooth cannot be saved, it may be extracted and replaced with a dental implant or bridge.
Preventing Tooth Decay
Prevention is key to avoiding cavities and maintaining optimal oral health. Here’s how you can reduce your risk of tooth decay:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill harmful bacteria.
- Limit sugary and starchy foods and opt for a balanced diet.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and encourage saliva production.
- Visit Fisher & Zitterich Dentistry twice a year for cleanings and exams.
Additionally, we offer professional fluoride treatments and dental sealants to strengthen enamel and provide extra protection for vulnerable areas.
Why Choose Fisher & Zitterich Dentistry?
At Fisher & Zitterich Dentistry, we combine expertise, compassion, and advanced technology to deliver exceptional care. Here’s why patients in Rockwall, TX, trust us for their dental needs:
- Comprehensive care: From prevention to advanced restorations, we offer a full range of treatments to address tooth decay at any stage.
- Personalized approach: We take the time to understand your unique oral health needs and tailor treatments accordingly.
- Comfort-first philosophy: Our friendly team ensures your experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
- Education and prevention: We empower patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain healthy smiles.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Don’t let tooth decay compromise your smile or oral health. Contact Fisher & Zitterich Dentistry in Rockwall, TX, today to schedule your appointment. Whether you need a routine cleaning, cavity treatment, or advanced restorative care, our team is here to help you achieve a healthier, brighter smile. Let us show you how proactive dental care can make all the difference!
