How Do Dentists Detect Cavities?

White Teeth

A cavity is a hole in a tooth, this develops in a tooth due to tooth decay. Cavities are formed when the acids in the mouth erode the enamel. Cavities can happen to anyone at any age. Cavities can be detected through various methods such as physical and x-ray examinations. During the clinical exam dentists use specific equipment to detect the presence of cavities along the tooth surface. If the instrument detects a dental cavity, it could be due to severe enamel damage. A visual examination can also determine cavities. Your dentist will check for discoloured teeth, this is usually an indication of a dental cavity.

Other methods used by a dentist are dental x rays. Dental x rays can help dentist find cavities between teeth and beneath the gum-line. In some cases, disclosing solution is required to diagnose presence of cavities. Get in touch with us if you are suspicious of having a cavity.

How Does Dentist Detect Tooth Decay?

  • Enquiring about your tooth pain and sensitivity
  • Examining your mouth and teeth
  • Using dental instruments to check for sensitive areas
  • Using dental X-rays to check for the extent of cavities and decay
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold food 
  • Deep decay 
  • Chipped or cracked tooth
  • Multiple dental procedures on the same tooth

Your dentist will also determine the type of cavity, that is, if it is smooth surface, pit and fissure, or root.

What Are The Common Treatments For Cavities? 

Treatment of cavities depends on its severity. Treatment options include:

  • Fluoride treatments: Fluoride treatment may be useful to restore your tooth's enamel. Fluoride treatments can be liquid, gel, foam or varnish that's brushed onto your teeth.
  • Fillings: If your decay has progressed beyond the early stage, dental fillings can be useful. A dentist will thoroughly clean the infected area and sanitize it, then a filling made from tooth-coloured composite resins, porcelain or dental amalgam can be used to fill the cleaned area. This looks and feels natural and can last you several years with good care. 
  • Crowns: For extensive decay, crowns are usually recommended. These are a custom-fitted to replace the tooth's entire natural crown. Your dentist drills and remove the decay and fill it with composite fillings, after this a crown is placed over the treated teeth to provide it more strength. Crowns may be made of gold, porcelain, resin, or other materials.
  • Root canals: If the decay reaches the tooth pulp, you may need a root canal. This helps restore and save a badly damaged tooth. The dentist will remove the diseased tooth pulp to clear any infection. The pulp is replaced with a filling and a crown may be placed over it to restore its shape and size.
  • Tooth extractions: If your tooth is damaged beyond repair and there are no options to restore it, extraction may be the only way out. You can consider getting a dental bridge or a dental implant to replace the missing tooth.

Contact Now!!!

If you are suffering from cavities and are looking for treatments to restore it, please get in touch with us now. We are a trusted dental clinic offering quality services.