How to take care of Teeth with Cavities?
Verified By Dr. Vidhi Dhakray Khanna | 11-Jul-2024
Tooth decay, also known as cavities or caries, is a common dental issue that can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. But fear not! With proper care, you can prevent further damage and maintain a healthy smile. In this article, Dr. Vidhi Dhakray Khanna, Senior Dental Surgeon at Kailash Hospital, Greater Noida, shares her expert advice on how to take care of teeth with cavities.
Table of Content:
Cavities, also known as dental caries, are areas of decay that develop on the tooth's surface. These occur when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on teeth. The bacteria feed on sugars in food, releasing acids that erode tooth enamel, the hard outer layer. If left unchecked, this erosion can lead to a cavity that penetrates deeper into the tooth, causing sensitivity, pain, and even tooth loss.
The good news is that cavities are often detectable in their early stages. Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Toothache: A mild to sharp pain in a specific tooth, especially when chewing or drinking something hot or cold.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Visible Discoloration: White, brown, or black spots on the tooth's surface can indicate a developing cavity.
- Roughness on the Tooth Surface: Running your tongue over the tooth might reveal a rough area where the enamel has eroded.
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Caring for cavity-affected teeth requires a combination of good oral hygiene practices, professional dental care, and lifestyle adjustments. Here are some essential tips:
- Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene: Effective oral hygiene is crucial in managing cavities and preventing further decay. Here’s how to take care of cavity teeth with proper oral hygiene:
- Brush Twice a Day: Use a fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Fluoride helps to strengthen the tooth enamel and prevent decay.
- Floss Daily: Flossing eliminates food debris and plaque from areas between the teeth and along the gum line that a toothbrush cannot access.
- Use Mouthwash: Using an antibacterial mouthwash can lower the number of bacteria in your mouth, thereby reducing the likelihood of cavities.
Dr. Vidhi Dhakray Khanna emphasizes, "Regular brushing, flossing, and the use of mouthwash are fundamental in managing cavities and preventing further tooth decay."
- Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular visits to the dentist are essential for monitoring and treating cavities. During these visits, your dentist can:
- Identify Early Signs of Decay: Regular check-ups allow for early detection of cavities, which can be treated more effectively in the initial stages.
- Professional Cleaning: A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup that you might miss during regular brushing and flossing.
- Fill Cavities: If cavities are detected, your dentist can fill them to prevent further decay.
"Routine dental visits are essential for sustaining oral health and catching cavities early before they develop into more significant issues," advises Dr. Khanna.
- Dietary Adjustments: Your diet plays a significant role in oral health. To care for teeth with cavities, consider the following dietary changes:
- Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks: Sugar fuels the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Reducing your intake of sugary snacks and beverages can help prevent cavities.
- Eat Tooth-Friendly Foods: Foods rich in calcium and phosphates, such as cheese, yogurt, and leafy greens, can help strengthen tooth enamel.
- Stay Hydrated: Consuming ample water assists in flushing out food debris and bacteria, lowering the likelihood of developing cavities.
Dr. Khanna suggests, "Adopting a diet that supports oral health is a key step in managing and preventing cavities."
- Use Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay and can even reverse early stages of decay. Your dentist may recommend:
- Fluoride Toothpaste: Use toothpaste containing fluoride to strengthen your teeth.
- Fluoride Treatments: Professional fluoride treatments at the dentist’s office can provide extra protection against cavities.
"Fluoride plays a crucial role in combating tooth decay effectively," says Dr. Khanna.
If you have teeth that are decaying, it's crucial to act promptly to halt further deterioration and restore your oral health. Here are some steps to consider:
- Dental Fillings: ental fillings are highly effective for addressing minor to moderate decay. They not only restore the tooth's function and structure but also prevent decay from progressing further.
- Types of Fillings: Your dentist may use amalgam (silver), composite (tooth-colored), gold, or ceramic fillings depending on the location and extent of the decay.
- Root Canal Treatment: If the decay extends into the tooth's pulp, a root canal procedure might be required. This procedure involves:
- Removing the Infected Pulp: The dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp and cleans the inside of the tooth.
- Sealing the Tooth: The tooth is then sealed with a filling or crown to restore its function and prevent further infection.
Dr. Khanna explains, "Performing a root canal is crucial to salvage a severely decayed tooth and halt the progression of any infection."
Now days, RCT can be done without any pain.
- Dental Crowns: For extensive decay, a dental crown may be required to restore the tooth’s structure and strength. A dental crown serves as a protective cap that shields the entire tooth, preventing additional damage.
- Types of Crowns: Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both.
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In addition to the core routine, consider these habits for a holistic approach to oral health:
- Chewing Sugar-Free Gum: Sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids in the mouth.
- Drinking Plenty of Water: Water helps keep your mouth hydrated, flushing away food debris and promoting a healthy oral environment.
- Quitting Smoking: Smoking weakens the immune system and increases the risk of gum disease, which can contribute to tooth decay.
- Using Mouthwash: Consider using a fluoride-containing mouthwash to further reduce plaque and strengthen enamel. Consult your dentist for guidance on choosing the right mouthwash.
- Regular Fluoride Treatments: As mentioned earlier, fluoride treatments can help strengthen the teeth and prevent decay. Discuss with your dentist the best fluoride treatment plan for you.
- Dental Sealants: Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They create a barrier that protects the enamel from plaque and acids.
- Ideal for Children: Sealants are especially beneficial for children, as they can prevent decay in the deep grooves of their molars.
Remember, you're not alone! Cavities are a common dental concern. By following these strategies and seeking professional help at Kailash Hospital, Greater Noida, you can effectively manage existing cavities and build a foundation for a lifetime of healthy, pain-free smiles.
Dr. Khanna offers a final note of encouragement, "Taking charge of your oral health is empowering. By implementing these steps consistently, you can prevent future cavities and maintain a healthy smile for years to come."
