by Malavi Sivakanesan • 24 February 2025 • 5 min read
Cavity is a hole in the tooth due to decay, and this happens when acids produced by the bacteria in the mouth wear out the enamel. Cavities may result in pain, infections, and tooth loss if left untreated for a long time. Thus, you must undertake early treatment in order to prevent complications and expensive dental operations. If you're wondering how to fix cavity teeth and what your treatment options are, read on till the end.
How Do You Get a Cavity?
Cavities do not grow overnight instead, they form because of a combination of factors. Here's how you get a cavity:
- Poor dental hygiene that permits plaque to build up on teeth.
- Regular eating of sweets and beverages.
- Mouth bacteria degrading food particles into acid.
- Dry mouth, minimising saliva flow and enamel coating.
What to Do If You Have Cavities?
Cavities typically begin small and may present themselves with symptoms of mild sensitivity, occasional pain, or dark discolouration of teeth. If you spot early signs of cavities, then you can use some preventive home remedies before visiting the dentist. So, here's what to do if you have cavities:
- Oil Pulling: Oil pulling is a natural remedy that involves swishing coconut oil or sesame oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes before spitting it out. This process helps reduce harmful bacteria and plaque, which can slow down the progression of cavities and improve overall oral health.
- Salt Water Rinse: You need to mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in warm water and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds. This helps prevent infections and promotes healing in early-stage cavities.
- Fluoride Mouth Rinse: Fluoride is essential for remineralising weak enamel, which can help slow down cavity formation. This is why rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash or using fluoride toothpaste strengthens teeth and prevents further decay.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera has natural antibacterial properties that can help fight cavity-causing bacteria. You can try applying fresh aloe vera gel directly to the affected tooth and leaving it on for a few minutes before rinsing. This may aid in preventing further decay.
Though home remedies may assist in treating early symptoms, they do not substitute dental professional work. So, once you've tried these methods, visit the dentist at your earliest convenience to get the correct treatment.
What Do Dentists Do to a Cavity?
A dentist will choose the most suitable course of treatment if you have a cavity, depending on its size and depth. Here's the answer to what do dentist do to a cavity:
Dental Fillings
Dental Fillings are the most common treatment for cavities. When cavities are more advanced, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the space is filled with materials like composite resins, amalgam, or gold.
This common treatment not only restores your tooth's structure but also brings back its function so you can smile with confidence.
Composite Bonding
Composite bonding is a popular and effective treatment for filling small cavities, especially on the front teeth. The process involves applying a tooth-colored resin material directly to the cavity.
The dentist then shapes the resin to match the natural contours of the tooth. Once the material is in place, a special light is used to bond it securely to the tooth.
Dental Crowns
If you have a large cavity that a regular filling can't fix, a crown helps restore the tooth's strength and shape. The process involves removing the decayed part, reshaping the tooth, and taking an impression to create a custom-fit crown.
You'll first get a temporary crown, and after a couple of weeks, the permanent one is cemented in place. A crown can last 10-15 years or more if it is properly taken care of.
Root Canal Treatment
When decay has reached the inner pulp of the tooth, a root canal is required. The dentist removes the infected tissue, cleans out the area, and seals it to avoid further infection.
The procedure usually takes one or two visits and is done under local anesthesia, so you won't feel pain. Afterward, you may experience mild soreness, but this can be managed with pain relievers.
Tooth Extraction
In worst-case scenarios, when a tooth is severely damaged, extraction becomes the only option. Once the tooth is extracted, it can be replaced with a dental implant or bridge to restore function and appearance.
A dental implant is a long-term solution that mimics a natural tooth, while a bridge fills the gap by connecting to adjacent teeth.
How Much Does a Cavity Filling Cost?
If you are wondering how much does a cavity filling cost then you should know that the cost depends on many variables, including:
- The size and position of the cavity
- The type of material used to fill it
- The experience of the dentist and the location of the clinic
On an average it will cost you between €80 to €250 for a composite filling in the UK. The cost will be greater for more complicated treatments such as crowns or root canals. For the exact cost, it is advisable to see a dentist.
Preventing Future Cavities
Cavities are easily preventable with some simple habits that don't require much extra effort. Brushing and flossing regularly, along with maintaining a healthy diet are some simple practices that can go a long way in protecting your oral health. To be extra safe, it's also important to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
And if you unfortunately have cavities, don't hesitate to book a consultation with Complete Smiles. They offer personalized treatment plans using advanced technology to ensure the best care possible. They're available all 7 days of the week to help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile.
Malavi Sivakanesan
Malavi Sivakanesan is the principal dentist and co-founder at Complete Smiles in Harrow, Greater London. She is responsible for establishing the Complete Smiles brand throughout the United Kingdom and Europe and has 5 successful practices under her strong leadership.