When decay damages a tooth, it is permanent. Like anything rotten, it spreads out and worsens, damaging surfaces where it touches and damaging 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 go by without properly 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 permanent damage. If not stopped, it progresses and reaches into the inner part of a tooth.
Cavities form when bacteria inside the mouth feed upon 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 dental checkups are important. Like the professionals in North Atlanta Family Dentistry in Johns Creek, the dentist can see any indication that holes are present. 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 solutions to manage cavities or stop them from happening. You are accountable for everyday management; the dental professional plays a significant part in your oral health. Some might neglect this, but all of you who have teeth should schedule your appointment with the dental clinic at least two times a year.
Oral Cleaning or Prophylaxis
This is done by dentists using special tools that blast away plaque. Deep cleaning also enables them to reach between the teeth and the gum for the plaque that hides from sight. Likewise, this process can eliminate discolorations from coffee, wine, or smoking.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride helps rebuild enamel in a process called remineralization. However, this is only possible when decay is spotted early. Fluoride treatments can be started during early childhood.
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 holes have been thoroughly cleaned and dried, they are filled with materials like amalgam or composite resin. Fillings need to be examined routinely to ensure they are doing their job.
Root Canal
For nasty cavities, nerve pain can be a result. If this happens, the dentist “kills” the nerve ending that causes the pain. The dentist then fills the hole normally. This is a somewhat painful process you should 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. A dental clinic can set an appointment for this or can offer an excellent emergency dental care. Have one in your contacts to help you immediately if this becomes an emergency.
The Takeaway
Healthy oral practices– brushing daily, mouthwash, and flossing– help significantly fight cavities. To protect oneself from losing teeth to cavities, guarantee oral examinations at least two times a year.
