Dentistry is the area of Dental Medicine that treats teeth with caries, with fractures, among others. The objective of these treatments is to recover the anatomy and color of the lost teeth, protecting the tooth and ensuring its function, always with aesthetic concern.
What is tooth decay?
Dental caries is one of the most frequent oral diseases affecting about 90% of the population. Caries is caused by bacteria existing in the oral cavity that from some foods lead to their decomposition, originating acids that can cause the destruction of the tooth. Dental caries usually develops with the formation of cavities that invade the tooth.
How is tooth decay treated?
Treatment consists of removing the affected tooth structure and replacing it with dental materials. Composite resins are currently the aesthetic material of choice for restoring teeth.
How can I tell if I have tooth decay?
The diagnosis of dental caries should be made through clinical and radiographic evaluation. The appearance and evolution of dental caries is, in general, slow. In the early stages (small cavities) there are usually no symptoms or pain. In caries in more advanced stages, more symptoms may arise, such as increased tooth sensitivity or pain in the presence of certain stimuli such as cold, sweet. In addition, bad breath or spontaneous pain may also arise.
Areas with color change, such as white, yellowish, brown or black spots, with the presence or absence of a cavity in some areas of the tooth are normally indicative of the presence of caries and should be observed by your Dentist.
Should I replace old amalgam fillings with resins?
Replacement of dark amalgam restorations should be performed when they present problems such as fractures or caries recurrence under it. Additionally, they should also be replaced if aesthetic needs so require.
What materials can be used to make the restorations?
Composite resins (composites) are the aesthetic material of choice for direct tooth restorations. Indirect restorations (teeth with greater destruction) can be made from composite resins produced in laboratories or dental ceramics.
What are overlays or indirect restorations?
When teeth are impacted, their resistance is compromised. In these situations, strengthening the tooth structure using indirect restorations (produced in the laboratory) is recommended. These restorations, in addition to strengthening the tooth, can also improve its aesthetics. Since they are produced in the laboratory, they require at least two consultations.