We have been reminded repeatedly from a very young age by elders and dentists that the basics of dental health start with regular brushing and oral hygiene. However, even after your best efforts, there are very strong chances that you might have dental cavities at some or the other point in your life. This condition, in fact, is so common that tooth decay and cavities are seen in around 90% of all adults between the age gap of 20 to 64. These trends have remained pretty much constant over the past few decades, not only in India but across the world. Tooth decay and cavities are obviously not the end of the world, but they still are a problem that requires urgent attention, ignoring which can hamper daily life and other aspects of a person’s health in a very adverse manner. In this blog, we will discuss in detail about cavities, and the treatment options available, so that you can get rid of that toothache and sensitivity, and enjoy all the delicacies you love!
How are cavities formed?
Before knowing about the treatment options, let us discuss how cavities are formed in the first place. Cavities are formed in a person’s teeth when the acid produced by the bacteria present in his mouth starts to attack the enamel layer of his teeth. This process is also called tooth decay. This decay can happen because of a number of reasons. Bacteria present in one’s mouth feed on carbohydrates and sugary food products. This can create a layer of plaque that covers the teeth. The bacteria present in plaque convert carbohydrates into acids which in turn, harm the enamel layer. This slowly removes minerals like calcium, fluoride, and phosphorus from the enamel. As this process continues, the acid reaches the inner layer of the teeth, which is called dentin, and then, a visible hole or cavity can be seen in the teeth.
What are the symptoms of Cavities?
If we talk about the symptoms of cavities, in the early stages, these symptoms can be completely invisible. However, as the decay progresses, there can be symptoms like pain and sensitivity towards sugary foods or sweets and hot or cold food items. White, brown or black staining can also be spotted on the affected teeth. Cavities, along with these visible symptoms, can also cause other issues like bad breath, and unpleasant taste. This can cause an unpleasant odor that might be strong enough for others to notice while you talk or interact with them. In more severe cases, it can also cause infections or pockets of pus, which result in face swelling, pain, and fever.
How can cavities be treated?
Now that we know how cavities are caused and their symptoms, let us discuss the treatment options available for this problem. You might come across certain home remedies which might be suggested to you from various sources, but these home remedies DO NOT bring any noticeable change in cavities. Cavity or tooth decay once happened, requires medical help and intervention from an experienced Dental Specialist in order to be treated completely. Based on your symptoms and the severity of the case, your dentist might suggest any of the options mentioned below:
- Fluoride Treatment
If the cavity is still in its early stages, a fluoride treatment can help restore the enamel and possibly reverse the cavity. Professional fluoride treatments have more fluoride than in tap water, toothpaste and other products.
- Fillings
Fillings are the most popular treatment option for tooth cavities. These involve drilling out the decayed tissue and filling the empty space with teeth-colored materials like porcelain or resin.
- Crowns
In case of the weakening of the tooth, or advanced stages of tooth decay, crowns are used to treat the patient. These are custom-fitted coverings which replace the natural crown of the tooth. These may be made of resin, strong porcelain or even gold!
- Root Canal
This option works when the decay is so severe that it reaches the inner tissue of the tooth called the pulp. It saves the healthy parts of a badly damaged tooth, instead of removing it completely.
- Tooth Extraction
Sometimes the tooth can be so damaged that it is impossible to restore or save it. In such cases, removal of the tooth is the only option. Tooth extraction leaves a blank spot in the mouth, which can cause other teeth to shift. In order to avoid this, implantation of a bridge or tooth is advised after tooth extraction.
If you are looking for the best dentist in Chandigarh or best orthodontics near me, you are at the right place. Sohana Hospital boasts of an advanced dental department with expert orthodontics and dental surgeons, coupled with advanced technology and dedicated support staff, which provides the most holistic and comprehensive care for all your dental ailments. Contact us today!