Cavities, also known as tooth decay or dental caries, can significantly impact the health of the smile. Just one cavity in a tooth can become problematic for patients. Dr. Chong Lee and his team at Galleria Dental Aesthetics in McLean, VA can evaluate patients to determine if they have cavities and discuss possible treatment options. Patients who are experiencing discomfort may be lead to believe that a cavity is present. In situations such as this, patients will want to book an appointment at their dental office for an evaluation. With a proper diagnosis, patients can talk about solutions to resolve the issue.
What are symptoms of tooth decay?
Some patients may have cavities and experience significant discomfort, while others may have cavities and not even know it. When noticeable symptoms occur, they often include the following:
- Pain and discomfort when biting and chewing
- Staining or discoloration that is black or brown on the surfaces of the teeth
- Holes and pits in the teeth that are noticeable
- Sensitivity to hot and cold beverages and foods
- Mild to severe toothaches
What can be done about tooth decay?
When patients have an area of tooth decay diagnosed by their dentist, they will often be advised as to the methods available to treat. In most cases, dental fillings are recommended. These essentially fill the hole left behind from the decay and keep it from getting larger or deeper. For areas where a severe or large cavity has presented, a dental crown might be placed over the tooth to further protect it from damage. In some instances, a tooth may need to be extracted due to severe decay. Our team will evaluate the patient’s current situation and make recommendations based on their unique needs.
How do I learn more about cavities?
Cavities are completely preventable with proper oral care habits. If you have questions about this or other conditions that may impact the smile, we encourage you to book a consultation visit with our team at Galleria Dental Aesthetics. The office is located at 1600 Tysons Boulevard, Suite #120 in McLean, VA and can be reached at (703) 448-1020.