Tooth decay is a common dental problem that affects millions of people around the world. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode the enamel, which is the hard outer layer of the teeth. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to cavities, pain, infection, and tooth loss.
Nevertheless, there are various restorative treatments your dentist may prescribe to repair the damage caused by tooth decay and restore the function and appearance of the teeth. Here are a few of them.
Fillings
Fillings are one of the simplest and most widely used restorative treatments for tooth decay. They involve removing the decayed part of the tooth and filling the cavity with a safe, durable material.
Often, the color of the filling is matched to that of the tooth. However, fillings can be made of different materials, such as composite resin, amalgam, gold, or porcelain. Fillings can last for years, depending on the material.
Crowns
The application of dental crowns is another common restorative treatment for tooth decay. The crowns are used when the decay is extensive and has damaged a large part of the tooth.
Each crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible part of the tooth above the gum line. A crown can be made of metal, porcelain, or a combination of both.
A crown can restore the strength, shape, and appearance of the tooth and protect it from further decay.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is a more complex restorative treatment for tooth decay. It is used when the decay has reached the pulp, the soft inner part of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels.
Root canal therapy involves removing the infected pulp and cleaning and sealing the root canal. After the root canal procedure, a crown is usually placed over the treated tooth to protect it from further damage. Root canal therapy can save a tooth from extraction and relieve pain and infection.
Implants
Implants are a more advanced restorative treatment for tooth decay. They are used when a tooth is missing or is too decayed to be salvaged.
Implants are artificial roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone and support a crown or a bridge. They can replace one or more missing teeth and restore their function and appearance. Implants can also prevent bone loss and preserve the facial structure.
To learn more, contact your dentist.
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