Do not forget that cavities have an infectious origin, since it is due to the accumulation of plaque. These microorganisms are held on the tooth structure by acid produced after digesting food. Consequently, the treatment of cavities always consist of two parts: the elimination of infection and repair and reconstruction of the affected tooth so the patient fully regain its functionality. The dentist will decide the course of treatment based on two variables. The first is to assess the degree of decay, which is done through careful exploration and support of an X-ray. The other relates to children and is designed to determine whether the affected part is a baby tooth or a permanent one. This is important because dental care is different with both.
With this determination, treatment will depend on what structures have been affected:
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If it is only the enamel, the patient will be asked to improve his or her oral hygiene. The dentist will explain the proper ways to brush and floss, and mouthwash may be recommended too. After a certain amount of time, the dentist will ask the patient to come back in for routine visits.
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When decay affects only the enamel and dentin, all infected and diseased tissue will be removed. The dentist will then proceed to rebuild the tooth by filling the hole with a composite resin, as these materials allow the filling to provide the same color of the tooth and will adhere better than other options previously used.
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If the cavity is deep and has affected the pulp (pulpitis), treatment will be more complex and will require the dentist to perform a root canal. This allows access to the pulp chamber and all neurovascular tissue is extracted, including the roots. After thoroughly cleaning the resulting cavity, it is filled with a bacteriostatic material that will prevent infection from reproducing. Finally, the professional will proceed with the reconstruction of the tooth or a crown placement may be necessary.
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Note that when there is an immature temporary or permanent tooth, treatment of this type should be more conservative to allow time for their development to complete. The important part of the process is to get treatment fast. Take a peek at website for more details.
