My Fixed Bridge Makes My Life Easier

When I had a badly decayed tooth extracted, I got a partial denture to fill in the gap. I didn't mind it at first, because I was just so happy to have my painful tooth out of my mouth. Over time, I began to get tired of taking it out at night. I asked my dentist if I was could get a dental implant, and he said that my gum disease did not make me a good candidate, but a fixed bridge may be a good option for me. I went with his suggestion, and I have no regrets. I love feeling like I have a real tooth again that I don't have to remove at night. I created this blog to remind other people with a missing tooth that they have many replacement options, and if one is not for you, then try another that may be right.

Your Guide To Cavities And Dental Decay

Dentist Blog

Your oral health is easy to ignore, but if you neglect to brush and floss, you could develop cavities and decay. If left untreated, this can lead to complex issues like infection and tooth loss. If you would like to know more about cavities and tooth decay, keep reading.

What Causes Cavities and Decay?

For the large part, cavities and decay are caused by acids released by bacteria. You naturally have bacteria in your mouth, and they create a layer of plaque when you eat or drink anything. Foods high in sugar and carbohydrates are prone to causing more plaque and bacteria. Brushing, flossing, drinking water, and even natural saliva help remove this plaque.

If left ignored, however, the plaque slowly breaks down the tooth's enamel. Eventually, it may reach the dentin, which can cause pain. In some cases, the decay can spread to the tooth's pulp, which causes an infection or abscess.

What Are the Symptoms of Decay?

Smaller cavities are harder to see, but you may be able to see larger cavities as black or brown spots. If decay is severe, you may see a visible pit in the tooth. Cavities, even small ones in the enamel, usually cause increased sensitivity, but larger cavities can also cause general pain.

In more serious cases, and in cases of infection, you may also experience:

  • Bad breath that won't go away
  • Swelling and redness
  • Pus
  • Metallic taste

How Are Cavities and Decay Treated?

Most cavities are treated with a filling. The dentist removes all damaged/dead tissue and replaces it with a metal or composite filling. For a more aesthetic solution, your dentist may recommend an inlay or onlay. If the tooth becomes infected, you may also need a referral to an endodontist for root canal treatment.

If the tooth experienced extreme decay and/or root canal treatment, the dentist will likely recommend a crown to reinforce the tooth, reducing the risk of the tooth shattering from uneven pressure. In some cases, even if much of the crown has been lost, the dentist may be able to rebuild the tooth. However, this may not be recommended for back teeth. Again, you'll need a dental crown for additional strength.

If you have a cavity, don't let it get any bigger. Cavities won't go away on their own, and they may spread and turn into painful abscesses. If you would like to know more about cavities or you want to schedule an appointment, contact a dentist today.

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3 February 2023