Fix Cavities
A tooth with cavities appears as a result of bacterial activity (bacteria streptococcus mutans) present in the oral flora, especially in plaque or biofilm, and feed on food particles, mainly sugars. Bacterial activity produces an acid that deteriorates the minerals present in tooth structures. The correct brushing, flossing, and prophylaxis, cleaning every 6 months are important allies to prevent the appearance of cavities.
Despite representing an early stage of tooth decay, it is important that it be treated quickly to prevent its evolution. Deep cavities can lead to the need for root canal treatment, and ultimately, when not treated correctly, lead to tooth loss and the need for a dental implant.
How does start?
A tooth with cavities affects oral aesthetics, especially cavities in the front tooth, there is more damage to the look, but it also affects oral health, as the lack of minerals makes the teeth more fragile and consequently can break, or the teeth lose their natural form – no longer fulfilling a functional role. When not treated properly, decay deteriorates the enamel and dentin, causing pain and sensitivity.
A hole in the tooth usually indicates a cavity.
In more serious cases (deep cavities), decay reaches down to the root, pulp and soft tissue, and the tooth may be lost entirely. Therefore, it is important to maintain proper oral hygiene, visit the dentist regularly, so that more serious problems are avoided or in time to treat them in the early stages.
Even with all oral hygiene care, many people can have cavities, and this can be explained by a genetic predisposition. That’s why regular visits to the dentist are so important.
Tooth decay symptoms:
* Initial – white and opaque spots
* Moderate – dark spots and enamel wear
* Advanced – very visible dark spots, loss of part of the tooth structure (enamel, dentin). Pain and sensitivity. Loss of the natural shape of the tooth. Advancement of the infection to the inside of the tooth (pulp), generating more intense and constant pain, since this region is highly innervated.
In advanced cases, the infection forms an abscess and also affects bone and gum, the supporting tissues of the teeth. There is also a risk of this infection getting into the bloodstream.
Cavities diagnosis
In the office, the dentist makes an analysis of the structure of the tooth, visually and with the help of a probe. In some cases, an X-ray may be required. In these exams it is almost always possible to know if the problem is stagnant or in progression.
How to avoid tooth with cavities?
* Reduce sugar consumption.
* Brush your teeth and floss after meals (at least 3 times a day). Oral hygiene removes food waste that would be consumed by bacteria.
* Maintain salivation. It balances the acidity in the mouth and maintains the mineralization of the teeth. Conditions that impair saliva production and make the mouth drier, such as uncontrolled diabetes and some chemotherapy treatments. Drinking a good amount of water helps in saliva production.
* Regular visits to the dentist for early diagnosis.
How to fix cavities?
The proper treatment will depend on the degree of the problem. In initial cases, the application of fluoride directly to the site may be indicated. Fluoride has tooth remineralization properties, or the application of a fluoride sealant may be indicated to prevent further demineralization.
In moderate cases – which is when the cavity reaches the enamel – the removal of the decayed tissue and later a functional and aesthetic restoration of the tooth with resin or porcelain may be indicated, that is, the re-composition of the shape and appearance of the tooth. It is also a way of trying to stop the disease from advancing.
In advanced cases – which is when there is a tooth with decay down to the dental pulp – there is a thorough study to carry out a treatment aimed at preserving and not extracting the tooth. A root canal and crown restoration is almost always indicated. This treatment is carried out in several sessions – between removal of the pulp and other dead tissues, total disinfection of all tissues (popularly called dressing) and finishing with filling of the canals and restoration of the dental crown. The tooth will then need a major reconstruction with a type of dental prosthesis called a porcelain crown or dental block. Very advanced cavities can lead to tooth loss. If the cavities have extended far into the root, reconstruction may not be feasible, leading to the indication of tooth extraction and placement of a dental implant.