Is an Emergency Cavity Filling Necessary for a Decayed Tooth?

Cavities, or tooth decay, are a serious condition that can affect the natural teeth and cause irreversible damage. Patients might think of cavities as small holes requiring composite resin fillings. However, there are times when emergency treatment may be needed, especially if patients are in extreme pain or have signs of infection. If you are in need of emergency dental care and assistance, Dr. Kimberly King, our dentist at Kitty Hawk Dental Care in Livermore, California, can evaluate your situation and determine the appropriate course of action.

When would I need an emergency cavity filling?

When tooth decay, or cavities, become large, they become more prominent and noticeable to the patient. This area becomes sensitive, especially when eating or drinking anything sweet. Patients will notice pain in the tooth that can be anywhere between mild to severe, depending specifically on the stage at which the cavity has reached. When a toothache or other problems develop, a patient may need an emergency filling or, in a more severe case, root canal therapy or tooth extraction. If you are experiencing a severe toothache, it is vital that you connect with a dentist to undergo an evaluation and determine the treatment needed to alleviate the discomfort, protect your smile from infection, and address the problem before it becomes more severe.

What if a filling cannot address the decay?

There are times when a cavity becomes large and cannot be effectively treated with a filing alone. Sometimes, a filling that affects the integrity of the tooth structure may need to be paired with a dental crown over the top to protect the tooth from further damage. If an infection has occurred, root canal therapy or endodontic treatment might be recommended. In a worst-case scenario, patients may require permanent extraction of the tooth and replacement.

How do I seek help for a cavity?

If you suspect you have a cavity and it is not yet time for your recall appointment, call our office to request a visit with Dr. Kimberly King and her team at Kitty Hawk Dental Care in Livermore, CA. Her office is in Suite C at 53 Wright Brothers Avenue, and she can be contacted by telephone at (925) 371-8880.