Regular checkups with your dentist is one of the best ways to identify cavities and some other dental conditions before they start to cause other symptoms and lead to serious problems. The sooner you seek out care for your cavities, the better the chances of reversing the stages of tooth decay and preventing its progression. If a cavity is treated early on, before it starts to cause pain, then it is less likely you will need extensive treatment.
The treatment your dentist uses for the cavity will depend on how severe the tooth decay is at the time. Some options include:
# Fluoride treatments: If the cavity is small and just started, then you may be able to use a fluoride treatment to restore the enamel of the tooth and reverse some of the decay. Professional treatments will have more of the fluoride in them than tap water, mouth rinses, and toothpaste. They can be gel, foam, varnish, or a liquid.
# Fillings: Fillings are one of the main treatment options when decay is past some of the earliest stages. Fillings are made out of different materials depending on where the cavity is located and how much the patient wants to spend.
# Crowns: For weak teeth or extensive decay of the teeth, your dentist may recommend a crown. This is a custom-fitted covering that will replace the natural crown of the tooth. The dentist will drill away at the area that is decayed and then place the crown on it. There are different material used depending on where the cavity is located.
# Root canal: When decay reaches the inner part of the tooth, you may need a root canal. This will help to repair and save a tooth with a lot of damage, rather than removing it. Medication can be given to help clear up any infections that may be there at the time.
# Tooth extraction: Some teeth have so much decay that it is impossible to restore them. In these cases, the dentist will work to remove the teeth. They may do other procedures to help prevent the teeth from shifting.
Having a cavity is not a lot of fun, though getting it taken care of is becoming more of a routine procedure for a lot of people. Our team is able to provide the dentistry in Austin that you need to help you handle any cavities that may show up. Our goal is to be there for all of your dental needs, ensuring that any problems are fixed as soon as possible and that you can fall in love with your smile. Contact us today to set up your appointment.