Fix Cavities
Areas where the tooth enamel has become permanently damaged, cavities develop into small holes or openings. Also known as tooth decay or caries, cavities develop due to a number of factors including bacteria in the mouth, snacking frequently, consuming sugary foods and drinks, and improperly cleaning the teeth.
Tooth decay and cavities are amongst the most common health problems. Anyone can develop cavities, including infants, but they are most common with children, teens, and elderly adults. If left untreated, cavities can get bigger and penetrate the deeper layers of the tooth.
Symptoms
In the earliest stages of a cavity, patients may not notice any symptoms. But as the decay grows, common signs and symptoms include:
- Toothache – may be spontaneous and occurring without an obvious cause
- Sensitivity issues – hot, cold, air
- Mild to intense pain when consuming sweet, cold, or hot foods and drinks
- Visible pits or holes in the tooth
- White, brown, or black staining on the tooth surface
- Pain when biting or chewing
Diagnosis
A dentist can often diagnose tooth decay by:
- Asking about tooth sensitivity and pain
- Examining the teeth and mouth
- Probing the teeth to check for soft areas using a dental instrument
- Ordering X-rays to show the extent of decay and cavities
- Identify if the cavity is root, pit and fissure, or smooth surface
Treatment Options
The best treatment option for tooth decay and cavities is to prevent them from developing in the first place. Practicing a thorough oral hygiene regimen of regular flossing and brushing coupled with regular dental checkups, can help decay from starting. But should a cavity develop, it is best to seek care as quickly as possible to minimize the decay from advancing and possibly reverse it if caught early.
Other treatment options for decay and cavities will vary based on the severity of decay and patient specific situation. Treatment options may include:
- Fluoride Treatments: One reasons cavities form is due to a deficiency of the mineral fluoride in the tooth enamel. If a cavity has just appeared, fluoride treatments may be able to restore the enamel and potentially reverse the cavity. While fluoride can be obtained from tap water, toothpastes, and mouthwashes, professional fluoride treatments contain more fluoride and are generally more effective. Professional treatments may be gel, liquid, varnish, or foam that is either brushed onto the teeth or placed in mouth trays that fit over the teeth.
- Fillings: Also known as restorations, fillings are the primary treatment option should decay progress beyond its initial stage. Fillings are made of porcelain, dental amalgam, or composite resins.
- Crowns: If decay is extensive and has weakened the tooth, a crown may be needed. Custom-fitted to patient specifications, a crown fits over the entire tooth and is made of resin, porcelain, gold, or other metals.
- Root Canals: If decay reaches the inner tooth pulp, a root canal procedure may be needed to clear out the infected tissue. Once the diseased tissue is removed, antibiotics may be used, the pulp replaced with filling, and a crown may be fitted over the damaged tooth.
- Tooth Extraction: Should decay be so severe or unresponsive to other treatments, the tooth may need to be removed (extracted). Because this will leave a gap, replacing the missing tooth with a dental implant, bridge, or denture may be needed.
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