If you’re suffering with toothache, get a shooting pain every time you sip on a hot chocolate or your tooth feels weak when you’re eating, you may have tooth decay. Christmas is all about enjoying the finer things in life, so the last thing you want is to be battling tooth pain and steering clear of tempting snacks. If you’re in pain or are due a check-up, call now and make an appointment before Christmas.
Treating tooth decay
Tooth decay causes cavities to form in the protective coating of the teeth. Once the enamel has been penetrated, the risk of further damage is increased and treatment is advised. The most common treatment for a cavity is a filling. Fillings are designed to protect the teeth by filling in cavities and reducing the risk of bacteria travelling through the tooth.
The filling procedure usually takes around 40-60 minutes. Before the tooth is filled, it will be numbed using local anaesthetic and the cavity will be cleaned and completely cleared of decayed tissue. When the cavity is clean, bonding material will be placed on the tooth tissue and dental composite will then be poured into the hole. Your dentist will shape the composite to fill the hole perfectly and the composite will then be hardened using a curing light. Once the filling has set, any final trimming will be done to make sure of a perfect fit.
If decay has spread through the tooth and reached the pulp tissue (the living tissue of the tooth), root canal treatment may be advised. This procedure helps to stem the spread of infection and strengthen the tooth. Often, it is used as an alternative to extracting the tooth.
How to prevent tooth decay
Tooth decay is extremely common, but it is preventable and following these simple steps will stand you in good stead to keep cavities at bay this Christmas time:
- brush the teeth twice a day for 2 minutes each time
- use fluoride toothpaste
- take care with your diet and eat sugary and acidic foods in moderation
- don’t brush too firmly
- wait an hour after eating before brushing your teeth
- chew sugar-free gum after eating
- see your dentist for regular check-ups
- floss daily
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