Cavities, also called dental caries, are the result of untreated tooth decay. Over time, this tooth decay can cause holes that go deep into your teeth, sometimes all the way to the root. Luckily, early cavities can be prevented — and even heal on their own — with the right approach to oral hygiene.

Can cavities go away on their own?

Cavities, also called dental caries, are the result of untreated tooth decay. Over time, this tooth decay can cause holes that go deep into your teeth, sometimes all the way to the root. Luckily, early cavities can be prevented — and even heal on their own — with the right approach to oral hygiene.

Why do white fillings hurt?

Composite resins, or white fillings, are made of a plastic material that will expand and contract with temperature changes. This expansion and contraction is felt within the tooth and results in sensitivity. Most commonly, the sensitivity is within the first couple of weeks after getting a white filling replaced.

Are cavities visible to the eye?

Cavities that have been left untreated for a long duration of time can usually become visible to the naked eye. This can look like a dark or light brown spot on your tooth where the structure has begun to dissolve and soften. You might find these spots between your teeth or, more likely, on the tops of your molars.

How long does it take to fill 4 cavities?

Once you realize that you have a cavity, you may wonder, “How long does a cavity filling take?” Thankfully, this procedure is relatively quick and easy to complete. A dental cavity filling takes about an hour or less to do. If you need several fillings, then your dentist may decide to treat them during multiple visits.

Do white fillings cost more than silver?

Silver fillings are also less expensive than white fillings, so they’re good for your bottom line. The main advantage of white fillings is their color. If you develop a cavity in a highly visible part of your mouth, you may prefer a tooth-colored filling.

Do all cavities need fillings?

In short, the answer is no. Dental fillings are used to treat cavities because a dentist tends to want to remove the decayed part (the cavity) and fill it to stop any further damage from occurring. While there aren’t ways to remove a cavity without using a filling, there are ways almost to reverse the decay.

How tell if you have a cavity?

Symptoms

1. Toothache, spontaneous pain or pain that occurs without any apparent cause.
2. Tooth sensitivity.
3. Mild to sharp pain when eating or drinking something sweet, hot or cold.
4. Visible holes or pits in your teeth.
5. Brown, black or white staining on any surface of a tooth.
6. Pain when you bite down.

Why do dentists not want to pull teeth?

Facial Structure: The positioning of your teeth in your mouth may make it difficult for a dentist to perform the extraction without causing discomfort. Things like large sinuses, or limited jaw mobility necessitate an extraction by an oral surgeon.

How much does it cost to fill a cavity without insurance?

Without dental insurance, the average cost of a filling is $200 to $600. However, the cost can range from $100 to $4,000 depending on the size and location of your cavity, as well as the type of filling material.

How long before cavities get bad?

They affect roughly 20 percent of children between the ages of 5 and 11. Multiple factors can influence how quickly tooth decay progresses, including oral hygiene, diet, and more. However, most cavities take several months or years to form.

How long do cavity fillings take?

The average time it takes to get a dental filling ranges from 20 minutes to an hour. In most cases, placing a dental filling is a relatively simple and painless procedure. First your mouth will be anesthetized to numb the affected area.

Is a small cavity bad?

Left untreated, even small cavities can lead to tooth infections, abscesses, or tooth loss. If you have a small cavity or it has been a while since you’ve had a dental exam, contact our skilled dentists at Capstone Dental in the Clintonville neighborhood of Columbus Ohio.

Does insurance cover white fillings?

Insurance companies don’t care. If you have multiple cavities on front teeth the solution they will pay for is white fillings. Although white fillings are not bad even the best white fillings microscopically look like sandpaper as compared to tooth enamel.