Cavity Treatment
At Clinique dentaire Julien & Marin, we strive to offer you comprehensive, personalized care for dental cavities. Our team of professionals uses advanced technologies and proven techniques to diagnose and treat cavities effectively and comfortably.
What is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is the most common oral disease. It develops slowly, gradually destroying the hard tissues of the tooth. Affecting a majority of the population, from children to adults, tooth decay is caused by the accumulation of dental plaque, a kind of bacterial deposit. Plaque bacteria transform sugars in food into acids, attacking tooth enamel and creating cavities. If left untreated, decay can spread to the dentine and pulp, causing pain and infection. Good oral hygiene and a balanced diet are crucial to preventing this condition. Find out how early detection and appropriate treatment can safeguard your dental health.
Cavities : Signs and Symptoms
Dental caries develops in several stages, each with its own distinct symptoms. It's important to recognize these signs so you can intervene quickly and avoid serious complications.
Stage 1
Caries Limited to the Enamel
In this early stage, decay usually causes no symptoms. Enamel is attacked without causing pain or discomfort, making this stage difficult to detect without a dental examination.
Stage 2
Dentin Decay
As decay progresses towards the dentin, you may begin to feel increased sensitivity, particularly when coming into contact with hot or cold foods or drinks. This pain is usually brief, but can be uncomfortable.
Stage 3
Tooth Pulp Decay
At this stage, pain becomes more severe. You may experience sharp, persistent pain, often described as “toothache”. This constant pain can interfere with your daily activities and sleep.
Stage 4
Infected Tooth Pulp
When the infection reaches the dental pulp, symptoms become severe. They may include:
- Intense, throbbing pain
- Redness and swelling of the gums or cheek
- Pain when chewing
- Headaches
- Fever
These signs indicate a serious infection requiring urgent dental attention to prevent more serious complications.
Treatments for Cavities
Filling
Stages 1 and 2: When decay is limited to the enamel or has reached the dentin, treatment first involves removing infected tissue and cleaning the tooth cavity. The cavity is then filled with a restorative material (filling), such as composite resin or porcelain. This method stops the progression of decay and restores the tooth's function, while ensuring a natural appearance.
Root Canal Treatment
Stages 3 & 4: If decay has reached the tooth pulp, root canal treatment is required. In this procedure, the infected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth cleaned, the space filled and sealed. The tooth is then restored with a filling, while a crown is often placed to strengthen and protect the tooth.
Extraction
When decay is too advanced and the tooth is beyond repair, tooth extraction becomes necessary. After extraction, solutions such as implants, crowns or bridges can be used to replace the missing tooth and maintain the integrity of the dentition.
Prevention is Better than Cure
Tooth decay is a largely preventable disease, thanks to good preventive habits. Here are a few essential tips to protect your teeth:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing every night.
- Adopt healthy eating habits by limiting sugars and acidic foods. Reduce the frequency of sweet foods and drinks. A balanced diet helps keep your teeth healthy.
- Regularly check the condition of your teeth and those of your children. Look for signs of decay, such as white spots or small, darker holes. In young children, cavities can appear as white spots or lines along the gums.
- See a dentist at least once a year for a complete check-up. For children, the first dental visit should take place around the age of 1.
By adopting these preventive practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and maintain a healthy smile. Consult us for a treatment tailored to your needs.