Treatment of tooth decay
What is cavities (tooth decay)?
Treatments, signs and symptoms
Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, is one of the most common and widespread chronic diseases today. When you eat certain foods, the bacteria on your teeth break them down and produce acids that can seriously damage the tooth’s hard tissues. The result is the formation of cavities.
Typically, dental caries occur in two specific areas of the teeth:
OCCLUSAL CARIES, which form on the chewing (top) surfaces where food particles frequently come into contact
INTERPROXIMAL CARIES, which develop between the teeth.
These are high-risk areas where bacteria multiply and threaten oral hygiene. If teeth and surrounding areas are not properly cared for, bacteria begin to digest leftover sugars in the mouth and convert them into acids. These acids are strong enough to demineralize the tooth enamel and create small holes – the first stage of decay. As the enamel begins to break down, the tooth loses its ability to naturally strengthen itself with calcium and phosphate from saliva. Over time, acid penetrates deeper and damages the tooth from the inside out.
Treatments for cavities
Professionally, there are four main treatment options for cavities:
FILLINGS
The most common method for treating caries. The dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth and fills the empty space with a suitable dental material. Composite resin is the most commonly used material, especially for front or visible teeth.
CROWNS
Used when a large portion of the tooth is destroyed. When decay weakens a tooth that requires a large filling, the tooth becomes prone to cracking. A crown covers and protects the tooth, restoring its function and strength.
ROOT CANAL TREATMENT (ENDODONTIC THERAPY)
When decay progresses into the inner part of the tooth and reaches the pulp (nerves and blood vessels), root canal therapy may be required. The infected or dead pulp is removed, the canals are disinfected, and then filled to prevent reinfection.
TOOTH EXTRACTION
In cases where the tooth is too damaged to be saved, extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection to the jawbone. If a tooth is removed, replacing it with a partial denture, bridge, or implant is often recommended to maintain bite alignment and prevent functional issues.