Tooth decay, also known as a dental cavity, is essentially a hole in the tooth. Decay often goes unnoticed until the tooth becomes sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods, or until a strong throbbing toothache develops—indicating that the decay has reached and damaged the nerve.
Tooth decay is typically caused by the buildup of bacterial plaque on teeth over time. Foods high in carbohydrates, such as sugary foods and drinks, feed the bacteria in our mouths, leading to the production of more acid. This acid breaks down the surface of the teeth, creating holes known as cavities. Once the enamel is breached, plaque and bacteria can reach the softer dentine, and eventually the nerve, resulting in severe toothache. In summary, a combination of a poor diet and inadequate dental hygiene leads to tooth decay.
At Holistic Dental Brunswick, the best approach to dealing with tooth decay is prevention. Preventative measures include maintaining healthy oral hygiene habits such as regular brushing and flossing, along with a diet low in sugar.
However, if decay has already reached the dentine, a filling may be necessary to restore the tooth. In more severe cases, a crown may be required to cover and protect the tooth. If decay has reached the nerve and is causing significant pain, root canal treatment may be needed to eliminate the toothache and save the tooth.
If left untreated, dental decay can lead to severe pain and infection of the dental nerve. This may result in the need for a root canal treatment or even a dental extraction. Ignoring tooth decay can have serious consequences, so it's important to address it promptly. If you'd like to learn more about tooth decay treatments, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Holistic Dental Brunswick for more information.
Holistic Dental Brunswick is a top choice for dental care not only in the Brunswick area but across Victoria. We prioritize our patients’ well-being by creating a calming, stress-free atmosphere, ensuring that even the most anxious patients feel relaxed and confident in our care.
We service Brunswick West and surrounding suburbs which include but not limited to: Melbourne, Essendon, Pascoe Vale South, Coburg, Brunswick, Ascot Vale and Parkville.
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