Cavities are one of the worst things that can happen to your teeth. In most patients, these cavities are formed during their teenage years, which is mostly due to irregular diet and too much sugar present in daily meals. However, cavities can also occur in older adults and can cause problems with their overall oral health.
Along with lifestyle and diet changes, there are also plenty of treatment options available for cavities. You can consult your dentist and ask them about which treatment will suit you best. Read on to find all possible treatment options available for cavities and which one can be good for you.
Direct Fillings
A decade ago, dental amalgam was used to fill dental cavities. However, in recent years, its use has been declining, and now other materials are used in its place to fill the cavities. These materials (known as restorative materials) are filled in the biting surface of the tooth that has been damaged due to decay.
These materials become hardened as soon as inserted in the cavities and will stop the sensitivity and pain in your teeth. Materials like composite resin fillings and glass ionomer cement fillings are used by doctors to fill tooth cavities.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride treatment will restore your tooth enamel lost due to the cavity and will even reverse the damage caused due to the cavity. However, this treatment is good in the early stages of cavities and won’t work if your cavities have been developed for a long time.
These fluoride treatments can be liquid gel or foam that is brushed onto your teeth. Sometimes, this fluoride is also placed inside the small tray that is fitted over your teeth. These treatments contain more fluoride than your toothpaste or tap water, so they will work quickly to restore your teeth’ enamel.
Dental Crowns
If your teeth have been subjected to extensive decay, dental crowns can be the best option for you. Dental crowns are custom-fitted coverings that will replace your tooth’s natural crown. In this procedure, the surgeon or dentist will drill away all the damaged areas due to cavities and then fit the crowns over the remaining teeth.
If you are having more problems and need emergency treatment, you can consult with your doctor and have same day crowns. However, make sure to opt for crowns that provide a good fit. There are also many options you can choose from, including gold, porcelain, and resin, so you can choose based on your budget and what your doctor recommends.
Tooth Extractions
Tooth extractions are the final options for severely decayed teeth that can’t undergo any other treatment, even crowns, and root canals. As implied by the name, the tooth extraction procedure involves pulling out your teeth by surgical methods. This will leave a gap that will cause your teeth to shift, thereby disturbing the shape of your other teeth nearby. The best option after a tooth extraction is to get a bridge or dental implant that will help you replace the missing teeth.
