Treating cavities as an infectious disease consists of two main parts. The first is through the elimination of the infectious agent and dental tissues affected by the infection. The second part will be the restoration or rehabilitation of the teeth, if possible. In case restoration is impossible, extraction would be the treatment performed. The dentist in Downers Grove will assess the possibilities during your visit.
Before deciding on a treatment, the dentist will assess two aspects, the degree of damage to the affected tooth and whether the tooth is temporary or permanent. In adolescents, presenting immature or permanent teeth, the treatments will differ from adult permanent teeth. So that is something to keep in mind when seeing a dentist. Treatment of cavities affecting enamel and dentin without affecting the pulp, involves dentists using sealants or fillings.
The patient is always encouraged to improve their oral hygiene and regular clinical consultations, especially when a history of cavities are present. Children who have a high risk of cavities undergo fissure sealing as a method of prevention. Dentists teach prevention as a primary method of dentistry, even though most patients see dental professionals only after something goes wrong. This is something that is not advised.
Here are some of the further treatments dentists use after cavities have caused their damage:
* Direct coating
* : Used in asymptomatic patients. The pulp is covered or sealed by calcium hydroxide. This happens when it has been minimally exposed by trauma or iatrogenic issues. This technique can be applied both in permanent teeth and primary teeth.
* Indirect coating
* : This is performed in asymptomatic patients. This method prevents exposure of the pulp by covering the pulp with calcium hydroxide. This technique can be applied both in permanent teeth and primary teeth.
* Pulpotomy
* : Is the removal of the pulp, only to replace it with a material called calcium hydroxide. This technique can be applied both in permanent teeth and primary teeth.
* Pulpectomy
* : Is the total elimination of the coronary pulp chamber and the root pulp, filling it with zinc oxide eugenol. Zinc oxide eugenol is resorbable, and thus facilitates root resorption when the eruption of the permanent teeth begins.
The best way to prevent cavities is through good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist in Downers Grove twice yearly for routine cleanings.
