What Is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay, also known as dental cavities or dental caries, is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Tooth decay or cavities can be considered to be the world’s most common dental problem. It can occur in children, teens, and adults. Anyone who has teeth can suffer from tooth decay or cavities, including toddlers.

When dental cavities form tiny holes or pits, it can lead to bacterial infection, tooth loss, or severe pain in the teeth. Tooth decay or a cavity is treated using procedures like dental sealants and fluoride treatments, or dental fillings. Tooth decay and cavities can occur on the smooth surface of the tooth, the biting surface of the tooth, near the root, or near the gumline.

There are many ways to treat tooth decay or cavities. The best cure for tooth decay is prevention, so dental sealants and fluoride are used to prevent tooth decay or cavities. Sometimes this may not be enough to prevent tooth decay and cavities are formed. In tooth decay treatment, dental fillings are used to repair the damage caused by tooth decay or cavities.

Dental Sealants and Fluoride Treatment

When you visit our dental practice at Fisher & Orfaly Dental, Salem, MA, for dental sealants & fluoride treatment, trusted family dentist Dr. Orfaly and our Registered Dental Hygienists will explain the benefits and what will be the best solution for you or your children’s dental care.
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Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings painted on the chewing surface of teeth — usually the back teeth (premolars and molars) — to prevent tooth decay.  Sealants quickly bond into the grooves of the teeth, forming a protective shield over the enamel of the teeth.

Fluoride is the most effective agent available to help prevent tooth decay. It is a mineral that is naturally present in varying amounts in almost all foods and water supplies. The benefits of fluoride have been well known for over 50 years and are supported by many health and professional organizations.

Fluoride Works in Two Ways:

Topical fluoride: Strengthens the teeth once they have erupted by seeping into the outer surface of the tooth enamel, making the teeth more resistant to tooth decay. We gain topical fluoride by using fluoride-containing dental products such as fluoride toothpaste, mouth rinses, fluoride varnish, and gels. Dentists and dental hygienists generally recommend that children have a professional application of fluoride twice a year during dental check-ups.
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Systemic fluoride: Strengthens the teeth that have erupted as well as those that are developing under the gums. We gain systemic fluoride from most foods and our community water supplies. It is also available as a supplement in drop or gel form and can be prescribed by your dentist or physician. Generally, fluoride drops are recommended for infants, and tablets are best suited for children up through the teen years. It is very important to monitor the amounts of fluoride a child ingests. If too much fluoride is consumed while the teeth are developing, a condition called fluorosis (white spots on the teeth) may result.
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Although most people receive fluoride from food and water, sometimes it is not enough to help prevent decay. The dentist or dental hygienist may recommend the use of home and/or professional fluoride treatments for the following reasons:

• Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth
  

• Exposed and sensitive root surfaces
  

• Fair to poor oral hygiene habits
  

• Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake
  

• Inadequate exposure to fluorides
  

• Inadequate saliva flow due to medical conditions, medical treatments, or medications
  

• Recent history of dental decay
  

Remember, fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay! To properly protect your teeth from cavities or tooth decay, it is important to brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, eat balanced meals, reduce sugary snacks, and visit your dentist on a regular basis.

Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings

A composite (tooth-colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by tooth decay, cracks, fractures, etc.  The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.

There are many types of filling materials available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. You and the dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth-colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.

As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced. But even so, they are very durable and will last many years, giving you a long-lasting, beautiful smile.

Reasons for Composite Fillings:

• Chipped teeth
  

• Closing space between two teeth
  

• Cracked or broken teeth
  

• Tooth decay
  

• Worn teeth
  

How Are Composite Fillings Placed?

Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment at Fisher & Orfaly Dental, Salem, MA. While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as necessary. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.
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It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however, this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling. You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.