Tooth decay can vary in causes and severity. For example, minor cavities require different treatment from major problems with decay. As a result, a dentist in Aurora, IL, must tailor treatments to meet a patient’s needs. This is the reason there are various solutions and restorations for different levels of tooth decay. These include the following:
Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are best for basic tooth decay and cavities. They help restore the structure of the damaged tooth and prevent the progression of cavities. Dental fillings are available in tooth-colored and metal forms.
Dental Crowns
A seriously decayed or damaged tooth can be addressed with a dental crown. Dental crowns are utilized for capping a severely damaged tooth, protecting the tooth structure from further damage. With crowns, you can bite and chew food without soreness, sensitivity, or discomfort. You can get tooth-colored crowns for your front teeth.
Inlays and Onlays
For serious tooth decay, inlays or onlays may be the best option. Inlays and onlays are bigger than fillings and can rebuild more of the structure of the damaged teeth. Also, they can replace the teeth’s entire biting surfaces. Generally, for front teeth, you should opt for tooth-colored inlays and onlays. For molars and pre-molars, metal inlays and onlays are good options.
Root Canal Therapy
Dental cavities are often dealt with by dental restorations. However, sometimes, you may need additional treatment to save a tooth that has major decay. For example, if the dental pulp structure is exposed to bacteria because of the decay, you may need a root canal treatment. This process eliminates the diseased pulp to relieve pain and help you avoid extraction.
Tooth Extraction
Your dentist will try their best to save your natural teeth. However, sometimes, the only option is to extract a tooth. This can happen when your tooth is seriously decayed and cannot be restored. After the extraction process, your dentist may recommend an appliance to fill the gap created by tooth loss, like a denture or dental bridge. Also, extraction is necessary when a dental infection has spread, causing you intense discomfort. Although not ideal, your dentist can get rid of the source of the issue, prescribe you antibiotics, and replace your missing tooth in the future with dental implants, crowns, or bridges.
If you have tooth decay or cavities, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Putting off a dental visit can only result in further dental issues.
