The grooves and pits in the back teeth make them more likely to get cavities. Food can become lodged in the crevasses, which can be difficult to reach with a toothbrush. But cavities on the front teeth are possible too.
How Cavities Form
First things first, let’s quickly go over how cavities form. Our mouths are home to millions of bacteria, and some of them just love to snack on the sugars and carbohydrates we consume.
As they feast, they produce acids as byproducts, and these acids can wear away the protective enamel coating on our teeth. Over time, this leads to tiny openings or cavities in the tooth’s surface.
What Causes Cavities in Front Teeth?
Now that we understand how cavities form, you might wonder why they show up on front teeth, which don’t have those deep grooves and pits as the back molars do.
Plaque Buildup:
Plaque is a sticky film that coats our teeth and contains harmful bacteria. Even though front teeth might not have deep grooves, plaque can still accumulate along the gumline and between teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can lead to cavity formation.
Braces and Aligners:
If you’re currently undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces or aligners, you might have noticed it’s a bit more challenging to clean around your teeth. Brackets and wires can create nooks and crannies where plaque can hide, increasing the risk of cavities.
Tooth Sensitivity and Erosion:
Some people may experience tooth sensitivity, which can lead them to avoid brushing their front teeth with vigor. Additionally, aggressive brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can cause enamel erosion, leaving the teeth more vulnerable to decay.
Treating Cavities on Front Teeth:
If you suspect or have been diagnosed with a cavity on a front tooth, take a deep breath because it’s treatable. The good news is that dental technology has come a long way, and your friendly dentist has several options to restore your tooth’s health and beauty with the best dental filling front teeth cost.
Dental Fillings:
Dental fillings are the most common and straightforward treatment for cavities. Your dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth and fill the cavity with a durable, tooth-colored material like composite resin. Additionally, once the filling is in place, your front tooth will look and feel as good as new!
Dental Bonding:
Dental bonding is another excellent option for treating front tooth cavities, especially for small or minor ones. During the bonding procedure, your dentist will apply a tooth-colored resin to the cavity and shape it to match the natural contours of your tooth.
The resin is then hardened with a special light, creating a seamless and natural-looking repair.
Dental Veneers:
For larger cavities or those in more visible areas, dental veneers might be the way to go. Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are custom-designed to fit over the front surface of your tooth.
Moreover, they can not only repair the cavity but also improve the appearance of your smile, covering any other imperfections or discolorations.
What is the Average Cost?
Well, you must be wondering about dental filling front teeth cost? Well, the cost can vary depending on several factors, such as the severity of the cavity, your location, and the specific treatment option you choose.
On average, dental fillings can range from $100 to $500 per tooth, while dental bonding may cost between $100 to $400 per tooth.
Preventing Future Front Tooth Cavities:
- Don’t forget to floss between your front teeth to remove food particles and plaque that your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks. If you do indulge, try to rinse your mouth with water afterward or chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. They’ll catch any early signs of decay and offer timely treatment.
