What to Do When a Dental Filling Isn’t Enough

A dental filling, made from either metal amalgam or white composite resin, is a restorative treatment designed to treat a tooth with a mild to moderate cavity. If the cavity is large enough, however, then a dental filling might not be enough to effectively restore the tooth, or to stop tooth infection from spreading. To treat extensive cavities, Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi Loukas can perform an endodontic procedure to remove the infection, then seal the roots to stop bacteria from spreading through their canals.

Where’s the Real Danger?

If you’ve ever had a cavity, it probably hurt. A toothache is one of the most frequent, and most identifiable, symptoms of tooth decay, ad its severity can hint at how pervasive the cavity’s become. If the situation is bad enough to require root canal treatment, then the tooth is likely highly sensitive to pressure, as well as hot and cold temperatures. The discomfort might also linger due to the infected pulp (nerves and blood vessels). If not treated immediately, the decay can spread through the roots, causing inflammation as the bacteria travel to the surrounding tissues and jawbone.

What is Endodontic Dentistry?

Endodontics is the study and treatment of a tooth’s pulp, which houses the tooth’s vulnerable internal tissues. Endodontic treatment, or root canal therapy, is the process of cleaning out the necrotic (dead) tooth tissues to preserve the healthy tooth structure that remains. Sealing the roots helps halt the infection, but the procedure can leave the tooth weak. After filling the root canals with a special, rubber-like material called gutta percha, Dr. Loukas will fill the rest of the cavity, usually with composite resin. To protect the tooth from your bite’s pressure, as well as improve its appearance, Dr. Loukas can place a lifelike porcelain dental crown over it following your endodontic treatment.

About Your Park Ridge Dentists:

We can rebuild your smile if it’s compromised by cosmetic issues, or by cavities, gum disease, or tooth loss, but preventing such issues with preventive dental care can help you avoid the need for complex treatment later. Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi Loukas are highly-skilled cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentists serving the Park Ridge and surrounding Chicago communities. To schedule an appointment, call Loukas General Dentistry today at (847) 696-1919.