3100 Monticello Ave., Suite 110, Dallas, TX 75205 214-380-9071

What Causes Cavities? Why Do I Need a Filling?

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What is a cavity?

A cavity, or hole in the tooth, is caused by tooth decay-causing bacteria. Decay-causing bacteria in the mouth eats sugars and starches left behind from food and beverage, leaving behind acid. This acid attacks the outer enamel layer of the tooth, weakening it by loss of minerals. As the tooth loses minerals, a white spot can form on the tooth — this is a sign of an early cavity.

The good news? A cavity can be stopped or even reversed when it is in its early stages confined to the outer enamel layer. This requires adding back minerals that were lost, through minerals found in saliva, toothpaste and fluoride varnish applied by your dentist or hygienist. If the enamel continues to lose minerals, it weakens and forms a cavity.

Why do cavities need to be filled with tooth fillings?

When a cavity is left untreated, the tooth decay process will continue and the cavity will become larger and closer to the center of the tooth. The center of the tooth contains the nerves and blood supply, which is the “life” of the tooth. If the decay reaches the center of the tooth, the tooth becomes infected which requires a root canal to treat. If the tooth decay is large enough, the tooth may need to be taken out.

How does my dentist check for cavities? Do cavities hurt?

You may notice a tooth cavity on your own if you notice a white spot or a small hole forming in your tooth. You may also notice sensitivity to sweets, or hot or cold food or drink, which can be a clue that you have a cavity. If you suspect a cavity in your tooth, it is important to let your dentist know so that they can take a closer look. Even if a cavity does not hurt or bother you, it is important to have it filled in a timely manner to prevent more urgent, involved, and often costly treatment.

Dentists check thoroughly for cavities at every exam visit through routine X-rays, looking at your teeth, and feeling your tooth surfaces with a special instrument called an explorer.

If I get a filling, will I ever need a filling on the same tooth again?

A tooth that has a filling should be carefully cleaned through regular tooth brushing and flossing, in addition to regular dental cleaning and exam visits at least every six months. A cavity can form underneath a filling in cases where the tooth is not adequately cleaned, or if you are more susceptible to cavities for reasons such as high sugar in your diet, decreased saliva, use of certain medications and other factors. Additionally, your tooth can get a cavity on a different tooth surface than the one that was previously filled, which would require an additional, separate filling to treat the cavity and prevent further tooth decay in that area.

What happens during a filling appointment?

What to expect when getting a tooth filling:

  1. Your dentist will gently numb the area around the tooth being filled — we first use a topical numbing jelly followed by local anesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
  2. Your dentist will remove the tooth decay and ensure only healthy tooth structure remains.
  3. Your dentist will clean the tooth, place a bonding agent that helps attach the filling to the tooth, then will place tooth-colored filling material called “composite” and carefully sculpt to restore your tooth to its natural shape.
  4. Finally, your dentist will finish and polish the filling, ensuring that your bite feels the same and you can floss your teeth the same as before you had the filling placed.

Once finished, we will discuss instructions on how to care for yourself and your filling after the visit, as well as provide you with written instructions so you will not forget. Of course, we are always here for you as questions arise. Give us a call at 214-380-9071 for more information and to make an appointment!

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