Exploring Ways to Treat Cavities
Editors note: This post was originally published in September 2023, and has been updated with additional content in December 2024.
The world of cavity treatments has expanded beyond the traditional “silver” fillings. While these silver fillings remain an option, there are newer ways to treat cavities. Let’s explore the variety of treatment options available, outlining their advantages and considerations.
What is a Tooth Cavity?
A tooth cavity, often called tooth decay, is a small hole that forms on the hard surface of your teeth due to damage from acids produced by bacteria. These bacteria thrive on leftover food particles, especially sugars, and create acids that gradually wear down the enamel—the tooth’s protective outer layer. Over time, if untreated, cavities can grow larger, reaching deeper layers of the tooth, including the pulp, and potentially causing pain or infection. The good news? Cavities are preventable with good oral hygiene, a solid oral care routine, regular dental check-ups, and mindful eating habits.
What Causes Tooth Cavity?
Tooth cavities are caused by a combination of factors, primarily involving bacteria in the mouth, sugary or starchy foods, and poor oral hygiene. When we eat, the bacteria in our mouths break down sugars and starches, producing acids that can wear away the tooth’s protective enamel. Over time, decay occurs as this acid attack creates tiny holes, or cavities, in the teeth. Skipping regular brushing and flossing allows plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up. If plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar, increasing the risk of cavities.
Factors like receding gums, dry mouth, or diets high in sugar contribute as well. Adults who are more likely to have receding gums are at a higher risk of developing cavities on the surface of the roots. The good news? Cavities are preventable with consistent care and smart dietary choices!
Available Treatments for Cavities
Gold Inlays or Onlays
Gold restorations are truly the “gold standard” for fillings. No other restorative material has the same longevity. Unfortunately, few dentist are trained to prepare and deliver gold inlays and onlays today.
Amalgam Cavity Filling
Amalgam fillings, often recognized as silver fillings, are a blend of mercury, silver, tin, copper, and trace metals. Their robustness makes them an excellent choice for back teeth’s chewing surfaces, as they can endure chewing forces without cracking. These fillings tend to last longer than alternatives.
Concerns about mercury content have been addressed by numerous government agencies and health organizations, which generally consider amalgam fillings safe. Amalgam fillings should only be replaced if they are broken, there is recurrent decay, or based on the patient’s aesthetic desires. Be careful if someone suggest replacing amalgam fillings because they are “leaking”.
Resin Composites
Resin composites, a plastic tooth-colored option, can repair cavities in any tooth. They are particularly popular for front teeth due to their color-matching ability. While they can handle chewing forces comparably to amalgam, they may not have the same longevity. Small cavities may develop around their edges as the bond to the tooth breaks down, necessitating replacements.
A clean, dry application surface is crucial for resin composites, making them less suitable for those who struggle to remain still during treatment. Composites ideally should be placed under a rubber dam or other isolation device. However, they’ve gained popularity among older children and adults for their natural appearance.
Glass Ionomers
Glass ionomers, another tooth-colored material, gradually release fluoride – a cavity fighter. They’re less sensitive to blood and saliva during placement, making them versatile. While suitable for non-biting areas and primary teeth, they might not withstand the chewing forces adults exert on their fillings. Glass ionomers are often used to patch or repair crowns on root surfaces, especially in geriatric patients. They, however, don’t perform well in dry mouth (xerostomia) patients.
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) provides a unique approach. It’s directly applied to cavities and halts their progression, although it doesn’t restore the tooth’s working surface. SDF is easy and cost-effective, commonly used for quick fixes, especially in baby teeth and geriatric patients. It’s worth noting that SDF isn’t tooth-colored; treated areas might turn areas of active decay black. SDF has FDA approval for treating root sensitivity.
How to Prevent Tooth Cavity
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily are your best defenses. Switching from a regular manual toothbrush to an electric toothbrush like Oral-B® electric toothbrush can significantly enhance your oral care. Dentists recommend spending at least 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth for optimal cleaning.
Fluoride has been proven to reduce decay, making it a key ingredient in both toothpaste and treatments. For added protection, regular professional cleaning and polishing not only keeps your smile bright but also ensures that stubborn bacteria are not removed improperly at home.
Contact Our Dentist in Auburn for Cavity Treatment
If you notice interproximal cavities or decay occurs on the chewing surfaces or flat surfaces of the teeth, visit a dental office. Treatments like fillings or an implant may be necessary. For advanced cases where tooth decay progresses, your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction. Advice about the best oral care products tailored to your needs is also available.
Cavities won’t go away on their own. Fighting cavities is a team effort—your daily efforts paired with professional treatments ensure the best course of action for your oral health. Contact us at Timothy Hess DDS to schedule your appointment, and discover the many ways to treat cavities!
