by Malavi Sivakanesan • 18 February 2025 • 5 min read
Cavities and tooth decay occur when bacteria produce acids that erode enamel, potentially leading to pain, infection, or tooth loss if untreated. Early detection is key to maintaining oral health. Managing cavities involves two main approaches: preventive care to stop them from forming and professional treatment to remove existing cavities.
Read on to learn about both these approaches in detail.
Preventive Treatment for Cavities in Teeth
"Prevention is better than cure." Caries tooth treatment begins with prevention. Here are effective ways to prevent any cavity type from developing:
1. Proper Oral Hygiene Practices
Good oral hygiene is the foundation of cavities and tooth decay prevention. Following these practices consistently can help reduce the chances of developing dental caries:
- Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste helps prevent dental caries by strengthening enamel and removing plaque.
- Flossing removes food particles that can cause caries teeth, preventing plaque buildup between teeth.
- Using an antibacterial mouthwash minimises bacterial growth, reducing the risk of early cavity.
2. Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride strengthens enamel and reduces the risk of a dental cavity. This treatment is available through:
- Fluoridated drinking water that will strengthen teeth from within.
- Fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash will provide external protection.
- Professional fluoride applications at a dental clinic, which offers higher concentrations for enhanced protection.
3. Dietary Changes for Healthier Teeth
Diet affects your whole body, including your oral health. So do the following dietary changes to prevent cavities:
- Reduce sugar intake since sugar feeds harmful bacteria.
- Eat fibre-rich foods to stimulate saliva production and cleanse teeth naturally.
- Drink water regularly to wash away food debris and bacteria that cause cavities and tooth decay.
4. Dental Sealants
Dental sealants protect molars by blocking bacteria from settling into deep grooves, preventing cavities and tooth decay. They are especially beneficial for children and those with deep pits in their molars, addressing a common reason for cavity in teeth.
Professional Treatment for Cavities in Teeth
When preventive measures are not enough, professional treatment becomes necessary for removing cavity from teeth. So, here are your best options:
1. Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are one of the most common treatments for dental caries removal. When a cavity forms, the dentist first removes the decayed portion of the tooth to stop the damage from spreading.
After cleaning the area, they fill the space with a strong material like composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain. This helps restore the tooth’s shape and function, making it easier to chew and preventing bacteria from causing further decay.
2. Root Canal Therapy
If decay reaches the pulp of the tooth, a root canal is needed. During this procedure, the dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it. This stops the infection from spreading and prevents the need for extraction.
After treatment, the tooth is usually covered with a crown to restore its strength and function.
3. Dental Crowns
A dental crown is used to cover and protect a weakened tooth after extensive decay or a root canal procedure, restoring its function and strength. Crowns are available in various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and metal.
4. Tooth Extractions
Tooth extraction is a last resort when a cavity has caused extensive damage, making it impossible to save the tooth. Once the decayed tooth is removed, the area heals over a few weeks, and the dentist may recommend precautions like avoiding hard foods and keeping the site clean to prevent infection.
After extraction, replacing the missing tooth is important to maintain proper bite alignment and prevent nearby teeth from shifting.
Choosing the Right Approach for Your Oral Health
Taking care of your teeth starts with prevention—brushing, flossing, and regular checkups can keep cavities at bay. If you’re already dealing with decay or discomfort, professional treatment for cavities in teeth, like fillings or crowns will fix the issue before it gets worse.
So, take the first step toward healthier teeth and schedule a consultation with Complete Smiles to receive the best caries tooth treatment. They have a highly specialised team and are available all seven days a week.
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.