Dentistry has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more people wanting to maintain their pearly whites than ever before. No longer just limited to treating tooth decay and removing cavities, practitioners can also provide cosmetic dentistry treatments to help you achieve that beautiful smile you've always wanted. If you want to learn more about how dentistry can benefit your dental health, continue reading.
Tooth decay is a bacterial infection that can take place along any surface of your teeth. It is also called dental caries or cavities. Bacteria feed on sugars in your mouth and produce acid that breaks down tooth enamel. The enamel is made up of minerals, mainly calcium phosphate and crystals of hydroxyapatite. Tooth decay occurs when plaque bacteria change from their harmless state to an acidic, harmful one. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to a severe infection in your jawbone or even death due to an infection spreading through your bloodstream to other parts of your body. Early signs include inflammation and sensitivity in affected areas.
The first step to treating tooth decay is removing as much decay as possible and restoring and protecting what remains. A dentist or dental hygienist may clean and polish your teeth or place a temporary filling on a small cavity to hold it until your next appointment. When you return, your dentist will check to see further decay and whether another treatment is needed. This process is known as restorative dentistry because it helps restore lost tooth structure. If you do need an extraction, rest assured that most tooth extractions are performed with minimal discomfort under local anesthesia.
Treatment depends on your general health and risk factors, as well as how long you've had tooth decay. If there is a deep cavity, it may need to be filled by a dentist or dental hygienist and then sealed with a temporary filling until you can return for permanent restorative treatment.
Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding and treating tooth decay. Brush twice a day and floss at least once daily and try to limit sugary drinks and snacks as much as possible. Contact your dentist right away if you are experiencing any pain or sensitivity; you could be developing a serious problem. If you suspect you have tooth decay, it is important to seek treatment immediately. Early detection can help reduce damage and save your teeth from being extracted or replaced with dentures or bridges.
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If you are concerned about tooth decay, there are several treatments available. To prevent further damage to your teeth and gums, your dentist may recommend the daily use of fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride strengthens teeth and helps to harden enamel, making them more resistant to bacteria that cause decay. Your dentist may also recommend an anti-cavity sealant that can be applied directly to your teeth to help prevent decay from developing at all. Your dentist will use a high-intensity light source—like an LED curing light—to cure or dry any sealants or other restorative materials used during your visit, so they do not come loose over time.
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