General Dentistry
General Dentistry deals with tooth fillings. A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay, or a cracked/ chipped tooth. It is also used for aesthetic reasons and when replacing old fillings. In most cases, a filling is necessary when there is a cavity because of tooth decay.
When teeth are not brushed regularly and thoroughly, plaque accumulates and the decay develops. The most typical places prone to damages are interdental spaces, teeth surfaces at the gum line and the furthest back teeth that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush. While bacteria in dental plaque break down food particles, some acids that damage tooth enamel are released.
Initially only the tooth surface is damaged and a white or brown stain appears. You can stop its expansion and restore the former strength of enamel by thorough cleaning and using certain materials with mineral content. It is very important to contact your dentist in time. He is able to detect the process starting and prevent the developing of decay. If the stain is not treated, the decay goes deeper into the tooth, forming a cavity that needs to be filled. The longer the filling is delayed, the more the damage expands. As a result, the decay reaches the deep layers of the tooth and damages the dental nerve.
Infection from the tooth can get into the bone, causing severe pain. Then the patient needs endodontic treatment that involves cleaning the root canals of the tooth. Moreover, because of the cavity, the food may remain in it. That causes an unpleasant smell from the mouth. Besides, the gums are damaged, the tooth can break and in some cases, it will have to be extracted.
