Tooth decay is a common dental issue. But it’s easily preventable and fixable if you take the right care!
Nobody wants rotten teeth! Whether called tooth decay, cavities, or dental caries, rotten teeth can cause pain, sensitivity, and difficulty eating. Cavities form when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugary or starchy foods, producing acids that wear away your enamel. Over time, this leads to decay that can reach deep into the tooth.
At first, you may not notice any symptoms. But as decay progresses, you might experience toothaches, temperature sensitivity, visible holes, or discoloration. Fortunately, even in more advanced stages, tooth decay can be repaired. At Espire Dental, your dentist can evaluate the extent of the decay and recommend the best treatment option.
Five Ways to Repair Rotten Teeth
Early detection is the key to preventing serious dental problems. If caught early enough, your dentist may be able to apply a concentrated fluoride treatment to stop decay before it progresses. For more advanced cases, here are five common methods for treating tooth decay:
- Fillings: The most common solution, fillings involve removing the decayed portion of the tooth and replacing it with silver amalgam, composite resin, or porcelain. Composite and porcelain match your tooth color, while silver amalgam is more durable and cost-effective but more visible.
- Crowns: If the decay is extensive and the tooth structure is compromised, a crown may be necessary. After removing the decayed portion, your dentist places a crown (made of porcelain, gold, or resin) to restore the tooth’s shape and strength.
- Root Canal: If decay reaches the pulp of the tooth (where nerves and blood vessels live), a root canal is needed. The infected tissue is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned, filled, and covered with a crown.
- Extractions: In cases where the tooth is too damaged to repair, it may need to be extracted to prevent infection from spreading.
- Dentures/Implants: After extraction, a gap can be filled with a partial or full denture, or a dental implant. Implants are surgically placed into the jaw and topped with a crown to mimic the natural tooth.
Preventing Tooth Decay
The best way to avoid needing fillings, crowns, or root canals is by practicing daily prevention. Here’s how:
- Avoid Sugars and Starches: Sugar feeds harmful bacteria, accelerating decay. Cut back on sugary drinks, processed snacks, and even fruit juices. Drink more water to help rinse your mouth and support healthy saliva production.
- Practice Oral Hygiene Daily: Brush at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and gentle, circular motions. Floss daily to clean between teeth, and consider using fluoride mouthwash if you’re prone to cavities.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule a dental exam and cleaning every six months. Your dentist can spot early signs of decay and treat them before they become serious problems.
Time to Fight Tooth Decay
At Espire Dental, we’re here to help you protect your smile—and restore it when needed. Whether you’re dealing with early-stage decay or a severely damaged tooth, we offer gentle, expert care to get your oral health back on track.
Schedule your appointment at Espire Dental today and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free smile.
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