Our teeth help us perform many functions in our daily lives, such as eating, speaking, and smiling. However, despite regular brushing, flossing, and dentist check-ups, cavities can develop in our teeth. Cavities are an infection that occurs as a result of damage to the tooth enamel and can cause problems such as pain, sensitivity, and even loss in the teeth. Therefore, cavities treatment is important to keep our teeth healthy.

Formation of Cavities

Cavities occur as a result of the interaction of bacteria on the surface of the tooth enamel with sugary foods. Bacteria produce acids after consuming sugary foods. These acids dissolve the minerals in the tooth enamel, weakening the enamel and eventually causing cavities. When the damage to the tooth enamel progresses, it can reach the dentin layer under the gum line and damage the nerves of the tooth.

Cavity Treatment Methods

The treatment of cavities varies depending on the extent of the damage and the location of the tooth. The most common cavities treatment methods include filling, tooth extraction, root canal treatment, and crowning.

Filling: A filling is a treatment method used when the decay is on the surface of the tooth enamel. The dentist cleans the decayed area and then fills it with a filling material. The filling material can be a tooth-colored material or silver amalgam.

Tooth Extraction: A tooth extraction is used when the decay is so extensive that the tooth cannot be saved. The dentist removes the root of the tooth and cleans the decayed area, and after the tooth is extracted, a dental implant or denture can be placed in place of the tooth.

Root Canal Treatment: A root canal treatment is used when the decay in the tooth enamel has damaged the nerves of the tooth. The dentist cleans the tooth by removing the nerves in the decayed area and then places a filling material in the root of the tooth