Treatment Options For Cavities

Cavities are small holes in the teeth that occur due to frequent snacking, bacteria in the mouth, and poor oral health. Regular brushing and flossing can help prevent cavities. There are numerous treatment options for cavities. However, the treatment choice depends on the symptoms' severity and decay extent. When the hole is still tiny, it can be filled with just a simple filling. However, when the cavity gets deep and large, it may need a more extensive treatment procedure. The following are treatment options for cavities:

FILLINGS

When the cavity is small, dentists can get rid of the tooth's decayed part and fill the hole with a composite resin or amalgam. Fillings will restore the function of your teeth and avoid further decay. This is because a filling seals off the cavity, offering a protective layer from food particles and bacteria.

FLUORIDE TREATMENTS

If your cavity is still in its initial stages, a fluoride treatment can rebuild your tooth's enamel, and in some cases, it can fix your dental caries. You can get more fluoride from professional fluoride treatments compared to tap water, mouth rinses, and toothpaste. Fluoride treatments come in various forms, such as gel, liquid, varnish, and foam.

CROWNS

A dentist may decide to use a crown to fix a large cavity or if the decay damages your tooth. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers the whole tooth, restoring its function and shape. Crowns are made using different materials such as gold, resin, metal, and porcelain fused, among other materials.

TOOTH EXTRACTIONS

The dentist can recommend tooth extraction if the tooth is severely damaged, or the decay is widespread. Extraction is a dental procedure where the whole tooth is removed from the socket. Tooth extraction may be accompanied by a dental bridge, implant, or any other dental restoration to replace the missing tooth.

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