“Can a deep cavity be filled?”
I am a 27 year old female. I want to know if a deep cavity can be filled?
3 Answers
Yes
Yes it can but depending how deep and whether it has invaded the pulp it might require a root canal.
Hello,
Yes, a deep cavity can be filled; however, it depends on how deep and the location of the cavity. In dentistry, when we refer to a deep cavity we usually mean that is close to the pulp chamber (where the nerves of the tooth reside). One could imagine that it would be painful to put a filling on top of a nerve. If the cavity goes right into the pulp chamber then it is too deep to fill and a root canal would be required provided the tooth is able to be restored. On the other hand, if the cavity does not go into the pulp chamber, then a good dentist will remove the cavity and the bacteria that have caused it. At this point, an assessment will be made about whether there is enough tooth structure over the pulp chamber to support a filling. If not, then a root canal would be required. If there is the filling would be placed and the tooth would be closely examined at the following dental check ups and cleanings. If the tooth becomes sensitive in the future then a root canal may be needed at that time. Hope this helps.
My best to you!
William F. Scott IV, DMD
Yes, a deep cavity can be filled; however, it depends on how deep and the location of the cavity. In dentistry, when we refer to a deep cavity we usually mean that is close to the pulp chamber (where the nerves of the tooth reside). One could imagine that it would be painful to put a filling on top of a nerve. If the cavity goes right into the pulp chamber then it is too deep to fill and a root canal would be required provided the tooth is able to be restored. On the other hand, if the cavity does not go into the pulp chamber, then a good dentist will remove the cavity and the bacteria that have caused it. At this point, an assessment will be made about whether there is enough tooth structure over the pulp chamber to support a filling. If not, then a root canal would be required. If there is the filling would be placed and the tooth would be closely examined at the following dental check ups and cleanings. If the tooth becomes sensitive in the future then a root canal may be needed at that time. Hope this helps.
My best to you!
William F. Scott IV, DMD
