Tooth Decay
Cavity Treatment and Prevention
Tooth Decay Treatment Albury
Tooth decay is damage that can potentially result in cavities, abscesses, or even tooth loss. It is caused by the activity of bacteria that can live in plaque.
Bacteria in plaque can convert the sugars in your food into acids. If plaque is allowed to build up, these acids can begin to damage your teeth.
This is why good oral hygiene is an important part of preventing tooth decay.
Symptoms of Tooth Decay
The symptoms of cavities depend on their extent and location.
When a cavity is just starting, you may not have any symptoms at all. As the decay gets bigger, it may cause symptoms such as:
- Tooth pain
- Tooth sensitivity
- Mild to sharp pain when eating/drinking something sweet, hot or cold
- Holes or pits in your teeth
- Staining on any surface of a tooth
- Pain when biting down
When to See a Dentist
You may not know that a cavity is forming. That’s why it’s important to have routine dental check-ups and cleanings, even when your mouth feels fine.
However, if you experience a toothache, see your Albury dentist as soon as possible.
Tooth Decay Treatments
Even the healthiest, most dedicated oral hygiene fans will most likely get at least one or two cavities over their lifetime — even your dentist will likely get a cavity at some point. So, while preventing cavities is ideal, don’t worry too much if you do get diagnosed with tooth cavities. The key is to detect them early and treat them quickly.
While it’s best to avoid getting them altogether, cavities are fairly simple to treat.
The simplest form of treatment for a cavity is a tooth filling, which is when the decayed portion of the tooth is removed and replaced with a filling made of composite resins, porcelain, silver, gold, or silver amalgam.
Treatment for larger cavities includes advanced techniques, such as dental crowns and root canal treatments. Fillings will stop the cavity from growing larger.
If you experience any signs of tooth decay or a cavity, see your Albury dentist immediately for treatment.
Tooth Decay Prevention
Prevent tooth decay by following these tips:
- Brush your teeth at least two times a day with a small-headed toothbrush fluoride-containing toothpaste.
- Clean the areas between your teeth every day with floss or an interdental cleaner.
- Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.
- Consult with your Albury dentist about the use of supplemental fluoride, which strengthens your teeth, and about the use of dental sealants applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from decay.
- Visit your Albury dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral examinations.
Tooth Decay Treatment in Albury
Tooth decay could cause any dental problems if left ignored.
With effective treatments offered at Kreativ Dental Albury, you can get escape the tooth decay nightmare in no time!
Request an appointment with your Albury dentist today!
Give your Albury dentist a call on (02) 6021 4171 for more information. Book your appointment online.
We are located at 525 Wilson St in Albury.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cavity?
A cavity is when the enamel breaks down due to bacteria on the teeth. The bacteria live on foods and drinks containing carbohydrates. The bacteria release acids when exposed to these sugars and starches. If not removed daily, the acids destroy the enamel and a cavity forms.
What type of foods can cause tooth decay?
How are cavities treated?
Cavities are usually treated by your Albury dentist with fillings. In this process, the weakened areas in tooth enamel are reinforced with various substances. This stops the decay by denying any further bacteria and acids access to the weak part of the tooth. Fillings can be made of composite resin, amalgamated metals, gold, silver or glass ionomer.