Tooth Decay Treatments Explained (But what happens if it isn't treated?)

tooth-decay-treatments

Dental cavities, also known as tooth decay, breaks down your tooth’s enamel (the hard outer layer of a tooth) and can vary in severity and stages of decay. Let’s take a look at the various tooth decay treatments and how we can help at Premier Dental.

Here are the 5 Stages of Tooth Decay and What they Look Like, according to Healthline.

Tooth Decay Treatments

Early Stage Treatment

Fluoride Treatment: For the beginning stages of tooth decay, fluoride is used to help strengthen the damaged enamel. Fluoride can actually be used in various ways to help stop the decay or even help repair some of the damaged enamel, and can be applied directly to the tooth and only take a few minutes.

More Options for Tooth Decay Treatments

Fillings: When you experience a cavity, oftentimes fillings are used as a treatment option. Your dentist will drill to remove any tooth decay and shape the cavity to fit the new filling. Then, the area will be filled with dental amalgam or composite.
Crowns: Larger cavities can require a crown instead of just a filling. The outer portion of the tooth will be removed, along with any areas of decay, and a crown will be made in the same shape/size/color of your natural tooth as a replacement to put over the tooth. Learn More: Why do I need a Dental Crown?
Root Canals: When the decay has entered the inner area of the tooth (the pulp), a root canal can be performed. You will receive a numbing agent to numb the area, and then the infected pulp will be removed and the area will be cleaned out. Learn More: Root Canal Therapy: Everything You Need to Know!
Tooth Extraction: If tooth decay is severe and is causing major damage, a tooth extraction may be recommended. The area will be numbed and the tooth will be extracted.

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Is Tooth Decay Reversible?

Tooth decay can be reversible if caught in the very early stages, which is why it’s important to see your dentist often for a dental exam and cleaning. If you’re experiencing any tooth pain or aches, come see us immediately to determine if decay is the cause. Learn More about Emergency Dental Care.

Once a tooth loses minerals and experiences a cavity, the damage is irreversible, but treatable so that the decay doesn’t spread to any other areas of the mouth. Help reverse early stages of tooth by cutting down on sugary foods and practicing good, daily oral hygiene!

If Left Untreated

If decay is left untreated, tooth decay can lead to a multitude of more serious oral health complications, such as:

Infection
Tooth pain
Loss of teeth
Abscesses
Gum Disease

Learn More: What is Tooth Decay?

Premier Dental in Lee’s Summit Prevents Tooth Decay

At Premier Dental, we work hard to customize each patient’s dental experience. By doing that we can actually make you want to visit the dentist – which will help prevent tooth decay! Our laid-back atmosphere, gentle touch of Dr. Stephan D. Caye, and relaxing amenities will have you looking forward to your next visit. Learn more about the Comprehensive Dentistry that is offered at Premier Dental in Lee’s Summit.

Dr. Stephan Caye and his friendly, experienced team at Premier Dental offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the Lee’s Summit, MO area. Our office is conveniently located off of Highway 50 and SE Blue Parkway. We offer appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At Premier Dental, we provide most dental health services, from family and general dentistry to specialty procedures, including dental implants, dentures, endodontic or root canal treatment, teeth whitening, cosmetic dentistry, emergency dental care and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Please call us at (816) 600-6330 to schedule an appointment.