When decay damages a tooth, it is irreparable. Like anything rotten, it spreads and gets worse, damaging surfaces where it touches and affecting more teeth. If you want to keep your toothy smile for a long time, it is best not to wait to get those fillings. If you let time pass without adequately paying attention to it, it might be too late for even the dental expert to save it.
How Cavities Come About
Dental cavities, also called tooth decay or caries, are irreversible damage. If not stopped, it progresses and reaches into the inner part of a tooth.
Cavities form when bacteria inside the mouth feed on sugar and starch and form acid. Plaque is formed when bacteria, acids, food, and saliva mix. This sticky substance adheres to the teeth; if not removed by brushing and flossing, it eats away the enamel. This causes holes, or cavities, to form.
Signs to Watch Out For
People are unaware of cavities forming. This is the reason routine oral examinations are essential. The dentist can see any indication that holes are present. However, there are ways cavities can make themselves known. Here are some signs that cavities are present.
- Bad breath or a weird taste in the mouth
- Gums bleeding
- Toothaches
- Sensitive teeth
- Redness or swelling inside the mouth
Management and Treatment
These holes are permanent, meaning teeth do not regenerate. There are ways to manage cavities or stop them from occurring. You are accountable for day-to-day management, but the dental professional also plays a vital role in your oral health. Some might ignore the importance of this, but everyone with teeth should visit a dental expert a minimum of twice a year. Read more about North Atlanta family dentistry to see how teeth and gums can be managed correctly.
Dental Cleaning or Prophylaxis
This is done by dentists using special tools that blast away plaque. Deep cleaning also permits them to reach between the teeth and the gum for the plaque that hides from sight. Also, this process can get rid of stains from coffee, wine, or smoking.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride helps rebuild enamel in a process called remineralization. This is just possible when decay is caught early. Fluoride treatments can be started during early childhood. If you need information about this, visit dental websites such as https://smilegeorgia.com/johns-creek/.
Fillings
Dentists drill away the decaying part of the teeth. Decay can cause dark discoloration, and the dentist needs to remove that to stop more damage. After the new hole has been thoroughly cleaned up and dried, they are filled with materials like amalgam or composite resin. Fillings should be examined regularly to ensure they are doing their job.
Root Canal
For nasty cavities, nerve pain can be a result. If this occurs, the dentist “kills” the nerve ending that causes the pain. The dentist then fills the hole normally. This is a rather unpleasant procedure you must not anticipate. So, at the first sign of tooth decay, have it fixed immediately.
Tooth Extractions
If a root canal is no longer possible and the tooth damage is extreme, the dentist may resort to extraction. For more information on extractions or emergency procedures, visit your dentist today.
The Takeaway
Healthy oral routines– brushing daily, gargling with mouthwash, and flossing– help combat cavities significantly. Nevertheless, guarantee dental checkups at least twice a year to further protect oneself from losing teeth to cavities.
