Necessary Precautions and Remedies for Tooth Decay

Wiltshire Caban Health

The sheer prevalence of tooth decay would astound you. Recent research indicates that twenty-five percent of Americans have dental caries. A tooth cavity may not initially cause pain or distress, but it can rapidly spread if left untreated. In addition to causing discomfort and sensitivity in the teeth, problems such as gum disease and tooth infections can develop from postponing treatment. A dentist in Markham, Ontario can help you with cavities.

How does tooth decay occur?

When plaque and dangerous bacteria build up on teeth, it causes decay. Plaque formation is accelerated by prolonged retention of food particles in the mouth.

Tartar, formed when plaque has existed, produces acids and other microbes that eat away at tooth enamel.

Symptoms of cavities

Tooth decay may be slow and painless initially, but as it progresses, it shows itself in the following ways:

  • One of the first signs of cavities is sensitivity to the biting or chewing of food. Eating foods that are too hot or cold, too acidic or too sweet, or when decay has worn down the enamel might be painful.
  • While dark spots on teeth could be an indication of discoloration, they can also be an indication of cavities. The patches can have a brown or black hue. They start as small, harmless spots but, if left untreated, can grow into huge, noticeable holes.
  • Not only can gum and tooth discomfort be caused by decay, but it can also spread to the nerves and roots of the tooth. This is the painful consequence of decay penetrating the dentin. 
  • Dental caries can lead to severe infections of the teeth and gums, as well as abscesses, if not addressed promptly. That damages the gums and causes foul breath.
  • When your body’s temperature rises, it will likely fight off an infection. Fever, abscesses, or infections result from degradation that has progressed to a more advanced stage.

Remedies for decaying teeth

Depending on their size and severity, various techniques exist to treat dental cavities or decays after they are found. If your teeth are decaying, try these four methods.

  • When an infection has spread to the pulp or root and created abscesses, the only option for treatment is a root canal. After placing dental restorations in the cavities created by the abscesses, a crown is affixed to the crown.
  • When decay has progressed to the stage where a tooth is irreparably damaged, extraction is the only remaining option.  A patient can receive a replacement tooth, an implant, or a bridge after having a decaying tooth extracted.
  • Fillings are valuable for filling cavities and strengthening enamel when deterioration has not progressed too far.