If your dentist has diagnosed you with tooth decay, undergoing a series of treatments to address it becomes imperative. Neglecting proper treatment can lead to escalating pain, as tooth decay can be quite discomforting. This article delves into the various aspects of treatment for tooth decay.
Flouride Treatment
Fluoride plays a crucial role in dental health and is commonly found in various dental products like toothpaste and mouthwash. It’s also typically present in trace amounts in natural tap water. Fluoride aids in cavity prevention and combating tooth decay, often being the initial recommendation or prescription by dentists upon detecting signs of decay.
Alternatively, if the dentist deems it necessary, affected teeth may receive a concentrated fluoride treatment, which can be applied as a gel or paste and left on for a specified duration. This procedure may need to be repeated several times for optimal effectiveness.
Fillings
When tooth decay has progressed beyond the enamel, the dentist may recommend a filling. This involves refilling the cavity in the affected tooth with a solution to restore its health. Fillings can be made of silver amalgam, composite resins, gold, or ceramics. Silver amalgam, a blend of metals including mercury and tin, is commonly chosen due to its ease of implementation and relatively lower cost.
Crowns
- When a tooth reaches an advanced state of decay where a filling would only weaken it, a method called crowning is often employed. In this procedure, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and a crown or covering is placed over it. Crowns can be crafted from materials like porcelain or gold.
Root Canal Treatment becomes necessary in severe cases where the nerves are affected. This involves the removal of the damaged pulp and decayed portion of the tooth, followed by sealing the area to prevent bacterial infection and gum diseases. Typically, this procedure is performed by an orthodontist.
To prevent tooth decay, consider the following practices:
– Brush your teeth twice daily.
– Rinse your mouth after meals.
– Avoid frequent snacking, especially when unable to clean your teeth afterward.
– Consume foods like cheese, fruits, and vegetables.
– Use fluoride toothpaste.
– Drink tap water, which contains fluoride.
– Maintain regular dental check-ups.
If you’re curious about how to treat tooth decay, this article should provide insight into what to expect. Avoid letting it progress to the extent of needing a root canal or tooth extraction due to neglect.