What are some treatments for tooth decay?

Posted by Dr. Chase Kelly on August 31st, 2022

Early stages of tooth decay can be treated, but advanced settings can lead to tooth loss and other problems. Early detection of the disease is essential when treating dental decay.

Fluoride varnish may be all that is needed to cure tooth decay in its earliest stages. Additionally, lifestyle changes may be made to slow the rate of deterioration. When decay has progressed to developing cavities, the tooth will be filled with a filling or crowned. Root canal treatment is recommended in cases where the inner nerves are exposed and causing severe pain. A severely damaged tooth may need surgery or extraction.

Treatments for tooth decay

Dental decay may be prevented or limited by applying fluoride to teeth in the early stages of their deterioration. Many toothpaste tubes include fluoride as a natural ingredient, although certain teas, seafood, and other foods naturally contain the mineral. Synthetic fluoride-containing toothpaste is a great way to get fluoride into your system. To prevent tooth decay, fluoride strengthens the enamel and prevents it from being eroded by acids. Fluoride also works to prevent plaque from forming and bacterial acids from forming in the mouth. Tooth enamel damage may be repaired by fluoride treatment even in the early stages of decay. A fluoride gel, varnish, or paste may be administered to the damaged tooth.

Filling cavities

 A dental filling may be utilized when a hole forms in the enamel but does not impact the tooth's inner pulp. The filling serves as a substitute for the tooth's natural enamel. An amalgam filling or a tooth-colored composite can be used to create this restoration. Dental cement secures the filling in place on the tooth's chewing surfaces. Cavities may also be filled with inlays and Onlays composed of more robust and durable metals, such as gold.

Placing an artificial dental crown on a tooth with a cavity is another treatment option. It is necessary to remove the decaying portion of the tooth to put a dome in its place, shaped like the original tooth. Dental cement is used to adhere the crown to the tooth, which may be composed of porcelain, ceramic, gold, or glass.

Root Canal Procedure

One final option to preserve a tooth is a root canal procedure. Root canal treatment may be necessary in cases where the pulp of the tooth, which contains the nerves and blood vessels and is sensitive to warmth and cold, has been damaged. Gutta-percha, an artificial pulp, is used to substitute the pulp in root canal therapy.

Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction may be necessary if it is severely damaged or decaying, mainly if problems such as spreading disease to adjacent teeth are a concern. A dental bridge, partial denture, or implant may be used to replace a missing tooth to retain a patient's look.

Teeth decay may be prevented.

Fortunately, tooth decay is one of the most avoidable health problems that children and adults face today. Some of the ways to avoid tooth decay are as follows:

Maintaining a healthy mouth is an integral part of excellent oral hygiene.

Fluoride toothpaste should be used to clean teeth twice daily (in the morning and at night). Sugary and carbohydrate-heavy meals need brushing within 30 minutes after eating. Brushing should be thorough, ensuring that all surfaces of the teeth are well cleaned. To prevent fluoride from being washed away, it's best not to rinse your mouth after brushing. Dispose of any extra paste by spitting it out. 

Between-teeth flossing removes food and plaque that the toothbrush can't reach. You should floss at least once a day to keep your teeth healthy.

Mouthwash

Tooth decay may be prevented with the use of fluoridated dental mouthwashes. There are exceptions to this rule, such as when fluoride mouthwash is used immediately after brushing.

It's essential to pay attention to what you eat and how you eat.

Too much sugary food and drink, such as soda and candy, may hasten tooth decay. Tooth decay is also linked to smoking. Maintaining a healthy diet and dental hygiene routine may help prevent tooth decay.

Routine visits to the dentist in Springfield

Adults should undergo a dental exam at least once every two years, if not more often. Children under 18 need yearly checkups, while younger children benefit from checkups every four or six months.You can visit our dental clinic for the best dentists  in a nearby area.