Toronto Tooth Decay Treatment: Dental Fillings, Inlays, Onlays, Crowns

Tooth Decay Treatment – Toronto

Here at The Art of Dentistry, we pride ourselves in helping patients in and around Toronto achieve healthier and more beautiful smiles. While aesthetic treatments are important, we also consider cosmetics when it comes to restorative dentistry for tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems.

With this in mind, we would like to consider the various treatments out there for tooth decay and some tips for preventing tooth decay from occurring.

Causes of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is caused by the bacteria naturally occurring within the mouth feeding on food particles on the teeth. In doing this, the oral bacteria creates acidity that damages the enamel of the teeth. The bacteria can create plaque (which in turn can harden into tartar) in order to remain on the surface of the teeth and feed on food particles, resulting in cavities and major tooth decay in the process.

Dental Fillings for Cavities

Regular dental fillings are ideal for regular cavities and minor cases of tooth decay. These fillings come in metal and tooth-colored forms, and help a great deal with it comes to strengthening teeth and preventing serious problems with dental health and general wellness.

Inlays and Onlays for More Serious Tooth Decay

When a dental filling is not enough to address a patient’s tooth decay, it’s important to use a larger dental restoration. That’s where inlays and onlays come into play. Inlays and onlays are able to restore larger portions of tooth structure, including the cusps (biting surfaces) of the teeth.

Dental Crowns for Major Tooth Decay and Damage

When a tooth is too decayed or damaged for even inlays and onlays, the next best option to consider is a dental crown. Dental crowns will cap the remaining tooth structure, protecting the tooth from harm and restoring a patient’s ability to bite and chew.

Root Canal Therapy Can Save Infected Teeth

If a patient’s tooth decay is so severe that it results in an infection of the soft tissue inside of the tooth, the best option to save the tooth is a root canal. Root canal therapy involves the removal of the infected dental pulp, the sterilization of the pulp chamber, the filling of the pulp chamber with an inert material, and the capping of the treated tooth with a dental crown.

Tooth Extraction for Teeth That Are Too Damaged to Be Saved

When a tooth is tooth is too damaged to be saved or is infected and root canal therapy is not an ideal option to consider, tooth extraction is the best option for good dental health. Ideally dentists will want to save teeth from extraction.

Tips for Preventing Tooth Decay

In order to prevent tooth decay, consider the following tips or oral hygiene:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day
Floss your teeth at least once a night
Drink water regularly to remove food particles and stay hydrated
Avoid snacking on sugary foods
Avoid drinking sodas
Visit your dentist twice a year for regular checkups

Schedule a Consultation for Tooth Decay Treatment

For more information about tooth decay and how it can be treated and prevented, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. Dr. Sol Weiss and the entire team look forward to your visit and helping you have the healthiest and most beautiful smile possible.

What Are the Treatment Options for Tooth Decay?