Tooth decay is one of the most common oral health concerns that general dentistry offices deal with. The good news is that there are effective and minimally invasive ways to treat most cases of tooth decay, and patients can prevent tooth decay from developing through good oral hygiene practices and regular dental cleanings.
Tooth decay is most commonly treated through dental fillings and root canal therapy. The long-term focus for general dentists is to help their patients prevent tooth decay through good oral hygiene and regular cleaning and check-up visits.
Tooth decay occurs when the outermost layer of teeth (known as the enamel) wears away and leaves the underlying layers of teeth exposed. This occurs as a result of acidic attacks from the combination of bacteria and food particles such as sugar. One common cause of this is a build-up of plaque and tartar (which contains bacteria) on the surface of teeth. Diets that include excessive consumption of sugar, starch, and other carbohydrates can also increase the risk of tooth decay.
A dental filling is used to treat minor tooth decay. It is a minimally invasive procedure that does not cause much (if any) discomfort. The tooth is numbed during the procedure, but the numbness should go away within a few hours. A dental filling can last for a decade or more.
For severe tooth decay, a dental filling is not enough to adequately address the cavity. In this case, a more thorough deep cleaning of the tooth is necessary, followed by the filling of the tooth with a material known as gutta-percha and the placement of a dental crown. This process is known as a root canal procedure.
Prevention is the best way to deal with tooth decay. Patients that visit the general dentist for regular teeth cleaning visits and who practice good oral hygiene at home are at a much lower risk of dental cavities. Between dental visits, patients should brush, floss, and use mouthwash as recommended by their general dentist, along with making smart dietary choices such as limiting sugar consumption.
Regular check-up visits with a general dentist can help reduce the risk of tooth decay in the long term, as well. During a check-up, the general dentist can assess the condition of teeth and the gums and make a recommendation for treatment, if necessary. Routine dental cleaning may be administered if the teeth are healthy and there is no decay.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Visalia, CA
Our general dentistry practice can treat tooth decay in multiple ways, depending on the severity of the decay and the location of the decayed teeth. We also focus on the long-term prevention of tooth decay and other oral health concerns. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Request an appointment or call Visalia Care Dental at 559-975-1213 for an appointment in our Visalia office.
A general dentist plays a vital role in guiding patients through the process of maintaining oral health while undergoing orthodontic treatment, such as braces. Braces are an excellent solution for straightening teeth and improving the alignment of the bite. However, they require special care to ensure that both the braces and teeth remain in good…
Chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis, can impact confidence and social interactions. Through a comprehensive dental examination and diagnostic techniques, they can pinpoint the source of bad breath and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Below are the most common causes of this condition.Identifying the specific cause is essential in providing effective and lasting relief.…
Maintaining a healthy smile begins with good oral habits and guidance from a general dentist. Many people have the same questions about dental care but may not ask them during visits. Getting answers to these common concerns can help prevent problems before they begin.A general dentist is a dentist who helps people maintain the health…