Fix Cavities

Tooth decay is quite common and involves three main stages.

The first step occurs when bacteria found in the mouth feeds on debris and coats the teeth with a film which is called plaque. As a result, brushing and flossing are vital for removing food and beverage debris and clean plaque off the teeth before it hardens and becomes tartar.

The next step involves the acids in plaque which attack minerals in the protective, hard enamel layer of the teeth. This results in holes and allows bacteria and acids to break through the dentin, which is the softer layer of the teeth. Dentin has small tubes which communicate with the nerves in your teeth. This is why cavities can cause increased tooth sensitivity.

Finally, the bacteria and acid reach the tooth’s pulp. This is the inner layer of the tooth which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp is effected, it result in swelling and pain at the root of the teeth. In addition to severe discomfort, when it is not treated, this type of damage can result in infection and even the loss of the tooth.

Dentists can typically detect tooth decay through the following methods:

  • Discussing tooth pain and sensitivity
  • Examining the teeth and mouth
  • Probing the teeth with a dental instrument to identify soft areas
  • Reviewing dental X-rays, which can expose cavities and the extent of the tooth decay

The dentist can also determine which types of cavity you have which includes smooth surface, pit and fissure, or root.

Treatment Options

Regular dental checkups help in identifying cavities or other dental conditions early and before they result in symptoms or more serious issues. Early care and treatment helps to improve your chances of reversing the early stages of tooth decay and aids in preventing it from progressing. When a cavity is treated before you experience pain, extensive treatment likely will not be required.

Treatment for cavities depends on the severity of the tooth decay, the tooth’s location and your specific case. Some of the most common treatment options for tooth decay include the following:

  • Fluoride treatments:If your cavity is in the early stages, a fluoride treatment can help to restore the enamel of the tooth and in some cases, reverse the cavity completely. Fluoride treatments are in the form of liquid, gel, foam or varnish which is brushed onto your teeth or placed in a tray which fits over your teeth.
  • Fillings:Fillings, which are also called restorations, are the most common treatment used once tooth decay has progressed beyond the initial stage. Fillings are created from various materials including a tooth-colored composite resin, porcelain or dental amalgam.
  • Crowns:When a patient experiences extensive tooth decay or has weakened teeth, they may require a crown which is placed on top of the tooth after the decay is removed. Crowns are often made of gold, high strength porcelain, resin, porcelain fused to metal or other types of materials.
  • Root canals:When the tooth decay reaches the pulp, a root canal may be required. A root canal is used when the tooth is badly damaged or infected and prevents the need to remove it. The procedure involves the dentist removing the diseased tooth pulp and placing a medication to treat any infection. The pulp is then replaced with a filling.
  • Extraction:In some cases, the tooth decay has progressed beyond repair and needs to be removed.

Fix Oral Health Issues : Fix Impacted Teeth