Oral and dental health is an integral part of our overall body health. Healthy teeth not only enhance our smile but also provide the chewing function necessary for proper digestion. However, due to changing dietary habits and inadequate oral care, dental caries have become a common health issue today. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the formation of dental caries and to take the necessary precautions.
Tooth decay is a complex disease process that affects the hard tissues of our teeth and has a progressive nature. This process develops as follows:
Bacteria in our mouths break down sugary and starchy foods, producing acids. These acids begin the demineralization process by dissolving the minerals in the enamel structure of the teeth.
The bacterial plaque layer that accumulates on the teeth continuously produces acids that damage the tooth surface. This is especially seen in areas that are not cleaned after brushing.
Over time, enamel that is continuously exposed to acid attacks weakens. Lesions that initially appear as white spots can turn into brown or black discolorations if left untreated.
When decay surpasses the enamel layer and reaches the dentin (tooth) tissue, the process accelerates. This is because dentin is a softer tissue than enamel and is less resistant to acids.
If untreated, cavities can eventually reach the live tissue of the tooth (pulp), causing severe pain, abscess formation, and tooth loss.
1. Early Stage Cavities
Fluoride application: A special fluoride gel or varnish applied to the tooth enamel promotes remineralization. This application strengthens the tooth structure and prevents the progression of initial cavities.
Remineralization treatments: For initial cavities that have not yet formed a cavity, special remineralization agents are used to promote self-repair of the tooth.
Fissure sealant application: A protective material applied to the deep grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent cavity formation in these areas.
2. Moderate Cavities
Composite (White) filling: Aesthetic fillings that match the color of the tooth. After the decay is cleaned, this material is hardened with a special light, preserving the natural appearance of the tooth.
Amalgam filling: A traditional filling material that is silver-colored and preferred, especially for back teeth.
Glass ionomer filling: A filling material with fluoride-releasing properties that is preferred for primary teeth and root surface cavities.
3. Advanced Cavities
Root canal treatment: In cases where decay has reached the tooth pulp, this process involves cleaning the nerve and blood vessel tissue and filling it with special filling materials.
Crown application: In cases where a large portion of the tooth structure has been lost, the entire tooth is covered with porcelain or metal-supported porcelain.
Tooth extraction: The removal of teeth that are too damaged to be treated, pose an infection risk, or are painful.
Tooth decay treatment is generally painless due to modern techniques and advanced anesthesia methods. With the local anesthesia applied before the procedure, patients feel comfortable during the treatment.
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