Monday 23 July 2012

Treatment and Prevention of dental caries



  • Treatment of dental caries is primarily removal of the affected area i.e., removal of the unhealthy decayed part of tooth and restoration of the form and function of the tooth, if the cavity is small, the area is cleaned and filing is done.
  •  In the past, the material used for filling was dental amalgam, a silver gray material made up of silver, mercury and copper. 
  • Presently, newer dental materials of composite resins resembling tooth color are used that are cosmetically appealing. Though, in large cavities of molar teeth (back teeth) still required the silver amalgam filling which has maximum strength.
  • In cavities which have involved the pulp, the root canal is the treatment. In this extensive cleaning of destroyed tooth and removal of its nerves and blood vessels is done. The tooth is practically dead. 
  • Restoration is done by filling and covering it with a crown. Sometimes, in difficult cases especially those involving wisdom tooth or in patients who cannot afford restorative treatment tooth extraction is required.


Dental caries can be prevented by undertaking following measures that keep the teeth and mouth clean and prevent built up of bacteria and acid in it.
  • Daily brush atleat twice a day.It is recommended ½ – 1 hour after breakfast and after dinner. Remember to clean tongue also.
  • Proper brushing, using tooth brush with soft bristles and replacing them in time.
  • Flossing teeth at least once a day preferably after brushing at night.
  • Use of fluoride based tooth paste for brushing.
  • Intake of proper diet including milk, green vegetables and various fruits to provide calcium and vitamin for health.
  • Avoid frequent snacking in between meals. It is important to remember that frequent intake of sugar and starchy food is more harmful than a single large meal.
  • Undergo regular yearly checkups with the dentist.

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