When decay harms a tooth, it is irreversible. Like anything rotten, it spreads and worsens, damaging surfaces where it touches, and damaging more teeth. If you wish to keep a toothy smile for a long time, it is best not to wait to get those fillings. If you let time pass without adequately paying attention to it, it might be too late for even the dental expert to save it.

How Cavities Come About

Dental cavities, also called tooth decay or caries, are permanent damage. If not stopped, it progresses and reaches into the inner part of a tooth.

Cavities form when bacteria inside the mouth feed on sugar and starch and form acid. Plaque forms when bacteria, acids, food, and saliva mix. This sticky substance adheres to the teeth; if not eliminated by brushing and flossing, it eats away the enamel. This causes holes, or cavities, to form, and this can be addressed by the dentist. Try searching online for ”dentist Johns Creek” for professional advice about cavities.

Signs to Look Out For

People are unaware of cavities forming. Because of this, regular oral checkups are essential. The dentist can see any evidence that holes exist. There are ways cavities can make themselves known. Here are some signs that cavities exist.

• Bad breath or a weird taste in the mouth
• Gums bleeding
• Toothaches
• Sensitive teeth
• Soreness or swelling inside the mouth

Management and Treatment

These holes are permanent, meaning teeth do not regenerate. Nevertheless, there are ways to manage cavities or stop them from occurring. You are responsible for day-to-day management, but the dentist plays an essential part in your oral health. Some might neglect the value of this, but every person who has teeth must visit a dental professional at least twice a year.

Oral Cleaning or Prophylaxis

This is done by dentists using special tools that blast away plaque. Deep cleaning allows them to reach between the teeth and the gum for the plaque that hides from sight. Coffee, wine, or cigarette smoking can cause discoloration and stains and can be removed in this process.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride helps rebuild enamel in a process called remineralization. Nevertheless, this is just possible when decay is caught early. Fluoride treatments can be started during early childhood. If you have kids that need treatment, this North Atlanta Family Dentistry homepage may help you.

Fillings

Dentists drill away the decaying part of the teeth. Decay can cause dark discoloration, and the dentist should remove that to stop further damage. After the new hole has been thoroughly cleaned and dried, they are filled with materials like amalgam or composite resin. Fillings should be inspected routinely to guarantee they are doing their job.

Root Canal

For nasty cavities, extreme nerve pain can be a result. If this occurs, the dentist “kills” the nerve ending that causes the pain. The dentist then fills the hole normally. This is a somewhat unpleasant procedure you must not look forward to, so at the very first sign of tooth decay, have it fixed right away.

Tooth Extractions

If a root canal is no longer possible and the tooth damage is extreme, the dentist might resort to extraction. If the pain is extreme, an emergency extraction might be necessary. Emergency dental care in Atlanta is always available to those needing immediate help. Dentists can advise medication prior and after the extraction.

The Takeaway

Healthy oral practices– brushing daily, gargling with mouthwash, and flossing– help combat cavities significantly. To further protect oneself from losing teeth to cavities, ensure oral examinations at least twice a year.