Fix Cavities

Tooth decay is a very common issue and the process involves three different phases.

The first phase takes place when bacteria, which is present in the mouth, feeds on debris and covers the teeth with a sticky film called plaque. Due to this, brushing and flossing are critical to remove debris and clean the plaque from the teeth prior to it hardening and turning into tartar.

The second phase occurs when the acids present in the plaque attack minerals in the hard, protective enamel layer of the teeth. This creates holes in the enamel and it allows bacteria and acids to break through the dentin. Dentin is a softer layer of the teeth below the enamel. Dentin has small tubes which communicate with the tooth’s nerves. As a result of this, cavities often result in tooth sensitivity.

In the last phase, the bacteria and acid access the pulp of the tooth. The pulp is the inner layer of the tooth and contains both blood vessels and nerves. When the pulp is impacted, it can result in swelling and pain. Along with severe discomfort, when it remains untreated, this type of extreme damage can result in infection or the loss of the tooth.

Dentists are often able to identify tooth decay using the following:

* Examining the teeth and mouth
* Reviewing symptoms such as tooth pain or sensitivity
* Probing teeth with an instrument to identify soft areas
* Reviewing dental X-rays which expose cavities and the level of decay

The dentist is also able to determine which type of cavity is present. The types of cavities include smooth surface, pit and fissure, or root.

Treatments

Routine dental appointments aid in identifying cavities or other issues in the early phases, prior to symptoms or serious issues. Early treatment and care improve your chances of reversing the early effects of tooth decay. Early intervention also aids in preventing the decay from progressing. When cavities are treated before pain is present, more extensive treatment solutions are not usually necessary.

The treatment plan for cavities is dependent on the severity of the tooth decay, the location of the tooth and other components specific to the patient. The most common treatments used for tooth decay include:

* Crowns: When a patient has extensive tooth decay or a weakened tooth, they may need a crown. The crown is placed on top of the tooth following the removal of the decay. Crowns can be made from gold, high strength porcelain, resin, porcelain fused to metal or other materials.
* Extraction: In severe cases, when the tooth decay progresses beyond the possibility of repair, it needs to be extracted.
* Fillings: Fillings are the most common treatment used when tooth decay progresses past the initial stage. Fillings are made from various materials such as tooth-colored composite resin, porcelain or dental amalgam.
* Fluoride treatments: When a cavity is in the initial stages, a fluoride treatment can aid in restoring the damaged enamel. In some cases, fluoride can completely reverse the tooth decay. Fluoride treatments are often in the form of liquid, gel, foam or varnish.
* Root canals: When the tooth decay reaches the tooth’s pulp, you may need a root canal. A root canal is used when the tooth is damaged or infected, but does not need to be removed. The procedure involves the removal of the diseased tooth pulp and the placement of a medication to treat the infection. Lastly, the pulp is replaced with a filling.

More on Oral Health : Fix Impacted Teeth