Overview:
Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, is caused when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that attack tooth enamel. The main risk factors for developing cavities include excess sugar in the diet, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth conditions, genetic factors, and orthodontic issues like gaps between teeth where food can get stuck. Children are more susceptible to cavities because their teeth are still developing. Elderly patients are also at higher risk due to medical conditions or limited mobility. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing daily can help reduce cavity risk.
Non-invasive Dental Caries Treatment
For early stage cavities that have just begun impacting the outer enamel layer, non-invasive Dental Caries Treatment methods may be recommended first before drilling is required. One option is topical fluoride therapy, which involves applying a high concentration of fluoride gel or varnish on the teeth to strengthen enamel. Fluoride makes tooth structure more acid-resistant. Another approach is silver diamine fluoride, a color-changing liquid that arrests cavity progression by inhibiting bacterial metabolism. It can relieve tooth sensitivity as well. These therapies aim to remineralize tooth enamel through fluid diffusion without injections or drilling.
Dental Fillings
Once cavities have penetrated into the inner layers of the tooth, fillings become necessary to restore their proper form and function. The dentist first removes all decayed material using a drill or laser. Then a filling material like composite resin or dental amalgam is molded into the cavity space. Composite fillings match tooth color and bond directly to enamel and dentin for a strong, long-lasting repair. Amalgams contain mercury but are very durable.
Dental Crowns
Large or multiple cavities where significant tooth structure is lost may require crowns. Crowns, also called caps, are custom-fitted artificial coverings that encase the entire visible portion of the tooth. First, the decayed tooth is prepared down by 1-2mm to allow the crown to fit securely. An impression is taken and sent to a dental lab, which fabricates the crown from materials like porcelain or porcelain fused to metal alloy. When cemented into place a few weeks later, crowns restore a tooth's proper shape, size, strength and appearance. They protect vulnerable tooth pulp and chewing surfaces from further damage.
Root Canal Dental Caries Treatment
If decay penetrates all the way down into the inner pulp cavity of the tooth, a root canal may be needed to save the tooth. The purpose is to remove diseased or infected pulp tissue from the tooth's root canals and fill/seal the inside. The dentist first drills a small hole through the top of the tooth to access the canals. Hand instruments like files and irrigating solutions carefully clean and shape the canals. Medicated filling materials like gutta-percha then obturate the canals. After a root canal, the tooth remains functional with a restored crown placed over top. Without treatment, an infected pulp could lead to severe pain or loss of the tooth.
Tooth Extractions
In circumstances where extensive decay or infection has already compromised tooth structure beyond repair, extraction may be the only viable treatment option. The tooth is surgically removed segment by segment using bone forceps and elevators after local anesthesia. Patients are given prescription pain medication and antibiotic for a few days to ease discomfort and prevent infection as the extraction site heals. Replacing missing teeth can be done with bridges, partial dentures, or dental implants once healing is complete. Extractions should always be considered carefully versus more conservative methods as extraction permanently removes a natural tooth.
Follow-up and Prevention
After any dental caries treatment, follow-up cleanings and exams help the dentist monitor healing and watch for signs the cavity has recurred or additional problems have arisen. Patients must continue diligent home care and follow the dentist's preventive diet and oral hygiene recommendations. Using fluoride toothpaste, avoiding sweets between meals, staying hydrated, and getting professional cleanings every 6 months helps maintain dental health to avoid future treatment being necessary. With proper care, natural teeth can often last a lifetime even after some have required fillings, root canals or small extractions from past decay.
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Dental Caries Treatment
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