Cavity Treatment
in Indianapolis & Greenwood, IN

One Family Dental provides comprehensive cavity treatment to protect our patients’ oral health. By dealing with the problem early on, we can stop decay from spreading deeper into teeth, preserve tooth structure that may otherwise break down, prevent bacterial infections that lead to abscesses, relieve any sensitivity or pain, and eliminate the future need for root canals or tooth extractions. Our patients’ comfort and well-being are top priorities for our board-certified dentist, Dr. Prasad Sanku, and his team. We aim to restore the natural structure, function, and beauty of teeth through effective cavity treatment.

What Is a Cavity?

A cavity is a hole that forms in a tooth when decay occurs. This condition is also known as caries. It appears when plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) builds up on the teeth. The bacteria in the plaque produce acids that eat away the enamel, which is the hard surface of the tooth. As the decay gets worse, it progresses through the outer layer of the tooth into the inner layers, creating a hole. If not treated, the cavity can become larger and infect the tooth pulp and root canal.

Poor oral hygiene allows plaque to accumulate on the teeth. This buildup is a leading cause of dental cavities. Individuals who do not regularly brush and floss their teeth are at a higher risk as plaque is not effectively removed.

Frequent consumption of sugary foods and beverages promotes the development of cavities. The sugars interact with bacteria in the mouth to form acids that break down the enamel of the teeth. A diet that is high in refined carbohydrates can intensify tooth decay.

Snacking on sugary or starchy foods allows acid attacks on the teeth to occur more often. Each time these foods are eaten, acids form in the mouth and erode tooth enamel. Limiting snacking frequency gives the teeth and saliva time to counteract these chemical reactions.

Chronic dry mouth is a common cause of cavities. Saliva helps to deal with acids produced by oral bacteria, rinse food particles, and rebuild lost minerals in the teeth. With inadequate saliva production, the teeth are more vulnerable to decay.

Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and limits the ability of bacteria to produce eroding acid. If other risk factors are present, individuals who do not have fluoridated drinking water or use fluoride toothpaste are more prone to cavities.

Tooth decay risk increases with age as the enamel erodes from dietary acids and decades of wear. Older adults also produce less saliva, have recession of the gums, and may take medications that cause dry mouth. All of these age-related factors create favorable conditions for cavities.

Lack of regular, professional dental cleanings allows plaque and tartar to accumulate unchecked. These sticky deposits trap bacteria next to the teeth and irritate the gums. Getting teeth cleaned professionally twice per year greatly reduces the amount of decay-causing bacteria.

Research shows that some people may be genetically predisposed to increased cavity risk. This may be due to tooth enamel that is thinner or more porous in structure. Heredity cannot be changed, which is why patients with a family history of frequent cavities must be extra diligent with preventive care.

Dental fillings are the most common treatment for cavities. They are recommended regularly during checkups, helping to prevent more serious issues. When a cavity appears, the decayed material is removed from the tooth and replaced with composite resin (tooth-colored fillings) or dental amalgam (not tooth-colored but more durable) to cover the hole and prevent further decay.

Composite resin is used for tooth-colored dental fillings. It is more popular due to its aesthetic qualities. Such tooth fillings are crucial for optimal oral health.
Dental amalgam, which includes mercury, silver, tin, and other elements, is sometimes utilized to strengthen back teeth, helping them withstand chewing forces. Such amalgam fillings restore the tooth’s shape, functionality, and durability.

What Causes Cavities?

Certain habits and biological factors can increase the risk of developing cavities. Here are the main ones:

Preparation for Cavity Treatment

Before beginning to treat cavities, Dr. Sanku performs a comprehensive examination to assess the extent of dental decay and select the best approach. This involves a visual inspection of the teeth using different instruments to check for damage, as well as X-rays to evaluate if the decay has spread to the tooth pulp or root. The dentist will also discuss the patient’s oral hygiene habits and diet to help prevent future cavity formation.

Cavity Treatment Procedure

Dr. Sanku injects a local anesthetic to fully numb the tooth and surrounding area that will be worked on. This allows the rest of the procedure to be completed without any pain.

Anesthesia

The dentist uses cotton rolls, high-volume evacuation (a suction device), and cheek retractors to isolate teeth from saliva and bacteria. These techniques allow him to work in an optimally dry mouth environment.

Moisture Control

Dr. Sanku then uses a small drill to remove the decayed material from the tooth. He eliminates all dental tissue that could allow bacteria to continue spreading. The goal is to deal with the decayed areas while preserving healthy tooth structure.

Decay Removal

Once the affected zones are treated, the dentist places base material over the inner tooth. This material helps to prevent sensitivity or bacterial spread inside the tooth.

Placement of Base Material

Once the affected zones are treated, the dentist places base material over the inner tooth. This material helps to prevent sensitivity or bacterial spread inside the tooth.

Placement of Base Material

The final step is to restore the tooth with composite resin or dental amalgam. Dr. Sanku covers the hole left behind from decay removal and restores the tooth structure, functionality, and integrity. The filler material is shaped and polished to match the natural tooth.

Tooth Restoration

Cavity Treatment Procedure

Dr. Sanku injects a local anesthetic to fully numb the tooth and surrounding area that will be worked on. This allows the rest of the procedure to be completed without any pain.

Anesthesia

Moisture Control

Decay Removal

Once the affected zones are treated, the dentist places base material over the inner tooth. This material helps to prevent sensitivity or bacterial spread inside the tooth.

Placement of Base Material

Once the affected zones are treated, the dentist places base material over the inner tooth. This material helps to prevent sensitivity or bacterial spread inside the tooth.

Placement of Base Material

Tooth Restoration

Add-On Procedures

CROWNS

A dental crown is a special “cap” that is placed over a tooth that has become severely decayed or damaged to protect and restore it. First, the affected areas are drilled and covered with composite fillings. Then, the crown is put on top of the tooth filling to hold it together and prevent fracture.

ROOT CANALS

If the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected due to deep decay or injury, the pulp is removed, and the root canal system is cleaned, shaped, disinfected, and sealed with a dental filling to save the tooth.

Recovery After Cavity Treatment

The recovery from cavity treatment is usually quick and straightforward. Patients may experience some sensitivity or discomfort in the restored tooth for a few days after the procedure, but this typically goes away on its own within a week. The tooth may be sensitive to high or low temperatures during the initial period. Patients can manage any discomfort by avoiding very hot or cold foods and beverages. Over-the-counter pain medication may also be used if needed.

Within a couple of days, patients should be able to resume their normal dental routine and eat and drink without problems. As long as they follow all post-procedure instructions from their dentist, the recovery is smooth.

Candidates for Cavity Treatment

Cavities are a common oral health issue that affects people of all ages. If left untreated, this condition can lead to infection, pain, and tooth loss. Most people are eligible for dental fillings, including:

Regular teeth cleanings are beneficial for nearly everyone. They help maintain dental health and identify potential issues before they become serious problems.

Benefits of Cavity Treatment

Cavities can be a serious problem with long-term consequences. By treating this condition at early stages, our patients will become healthier and avoid many complications in the future. Here are the main benefits of cavity treatment:

Stops decay from spreading

Filling a cavity prevents the decay from extending deeper into the tooth and infecting the nerve.

Prevents the loss of tooth structure

Without treatment, cavities become larger over time and significantly weaken the tooth.

Reduces the chance of infections

Bacteria can enter through a cavity into deeper tooth structures, causing dangerous abscesses.

Relieves pain

Cavity treatment removes decayed material pressing on tooth nerve endings and causing sensitivity and pain.

Preserves chewing function

Treating cavities prevents breaking or losing the tooth, which is important for chewing.

No need for root canals or extractions

Extensive decay may require removal of the tooth nerve or extraction if not treated early.

Saves money over the long term

Dental fillings are less costly than paying for root canals, crowns, implants, or dentures later.

Cost of Cavity Treatment Indianapolis

The cost of cavity treatment in Indianapolis ranges from $100 to $400 per tooth, depending on the extent and type of filling used. More complex cases that require a dental crown can cost up to $1,000 per tooth. The final price for cavity treatment will be provided after we develop a plan. During a consultation, Dr. Sanku will examine the patient’s teeth, take X-rays if needed, and recommend the best procedures. Out-of-pocket expenses will depend on the patient’s dental insurance coverage. We work with most major insurance companies and offer flexible financing with Sunbit.

What Makes Our Cavity Treatment Different From Others?

One Family Dental stands apart from many dental offices due to its exceptional, compassionate care and membership program. Led by a board-certified dentist, Dr. Prasad Sanku, our practice provides personalized treatment that aims to maximize patient comfort. Our SMILE CLUB makes quality dental care more accessible through a subscription-based model that grants various members benefits, such as free cleanings, exams, X-rays, exclusive discounts, and urgent care priority scheduling. We are here to improve our patients’ smiles and well-being.

Our Happy Patients

Had a wonderful experience. Went in thinking I was going to have to get my tooth extracted . Doc came up with a plan got me fixed and back eating in no time. With minimal numbing the whole 9 . Great place to go atmosphere is great and nurses are very pleasant.

- Anitra Tyler

I am a new patient and very glad I chose this dentist office. I felt welcomed. Staff was professional and kind and I also felt comfortable when I got in “THE CHAIR”. I am one of those who has a little anxiety when it comes to “Dentist appt. today”. A big thank you and it was a pleasure to meet my new dentist family.

- Doushan Babb

One of if not the best dentist in Indy! I’ve have went there for years. An honest profession with a great and personable staff. I have never been disappointed with the service or diagnosis on any situation that they have come across with my wife and I or my daughter. Thanks for being there for our family!

- Jamie Murphy

Dr. Sanku and his staff are so kind and gentle. I certainly felt comfortably relaxed and I highly recommend One Family Dental

- Barbara Cripe

This office is efficient and I feel comfortable with my care. I had my wisdom teeth removed and it was not nearly as bad as stories I had heard. I feel welcomed by the staff and there are seldom any wait time. I have been going to this office for 19 years.

- Midge Kelley

schedule your family’s first appointment and start enjoying a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

Cavity Treatment in Indianapolis & Greenwood, IN

What Is a Cavity?

What Causes Cavities?

Preparation for Cavity Treatment

Cavity Treatment Procedure

Add-On Procedures

Recovery After Cavity Treatment

Candidates for Cavity Treatment

Benefits of Cavity Treatment

Stops decay from spreading

Prevents the loss of tooth structure

Reduces the chance of infections

Relieves pain

Preserves chewing function

No need for root canals or extractions

Saves money over the long term

Cost of Cavity Treatment Indianapolis

What Makes Our Cavity Treatment Different From Others?

Our Happy Patients

Cavity Treatment
in Indianapolis & Greenwood, IN