Tooth decay: restoration methods, costs and aftercare

Tooth decay is one of the most common oral and dental problems that can lead to pain, infection and eventually tooth loss. Repairing tooth decay is necessary to maintain the beauty of the smile and plays an important role in maintaining the health of the mouth and other teeth. It was for these reasons that we decided in this article from Dr. Benianian's dental website to fully investigate tooth decay, its causes, various methods of tooth decay repair, costs, necessary care, and ways to prevent this unpleasant complication. So for more information, stay with us until the end of this article. What is tooth decay and how does it occur? Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acid and destroy tooth enamel. This process can lead to cavities and serious damage to the teeth. Now either surface holes, or deep holes. There are many reasons for tooth decay, which we will describe each one below. ### 1. High consumption of sugar Excessive sugar consumption is one of the main causes of tooth decay. Because oral bacteria feed on sugars and produce acid. As a result, this acid gradually destroys tooth enamel. If this process continues, that is, you regularly consume sugar and sweets and do not stop the further decay of your teeth, the cavities of your teeth will become more and more and the work of that tooth will stop! As a result, you either have to have your tooth extracted, or give in to tooth extraction! It is for these reasons that since we were children, we were all told to stay away from sugary foods, especially sweet drinks, chocolates, and sweets, or at least to brush our teeth after consuming them! **Read more:** Tooth extraction without pain ### 2. Lack of oral hygiene Not observing oral and dental hygiene means not brushing regularly and not using dental floss. That is, the same actions that cause bacteria and food particles to remain in the mouth and lead to caries. Therefore, because the dental plaques that are formed as a result of the accumulation of bacteria can damage the tooth enamel, the lack of brushing and flossing in the long term leads to tooth decay. ### 3. Genetics It might be interesting for you to know that genetics can also affect the possibility of tooth decay. Because the type of teeth largely depends on the family genetics of each person. That is, some people naturally have weaker tooth enamel (which makes them more susceptible to decay). Some people may not be more resistant to certain bacteria due to their genetic characteristics and suffer from tooth decay less than others. ### 4. dry mouth Dry mouth or reduced saliva production can also increase the risk of tooth decay. Because saliva naturally helps to wash and clean the teeth from bacteria and food particles. So, when saliva production decreases, the risk of dental plaque accumulation increases and as a result, the probability of tooth decay increases. ### 5. **smoking** One of the most toxic habits of people, which happens to be very harmful to teeth, is smoking and using other tobacco products. A habit that causes dry mouth, decreased saliva flow and increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Of course, the chemicals in tobacco can cause serious damage to the structure of the teeth. This means that the harm of these substances is not only due to drying of the mouth. ### 6. Medical and pharmaceutical agents Some diseases and medications that are taken continuously can also cause tooth decay. For example, people who use antacids or antidepressants may experience decreased saliva production. Or, for example, those who have chronic diseases such as diabetes may suffer from tooth decay more than others. **Read more:** Steps of tooth extraction Tooth decay repair methods Tooth decay repair is done with different methods depending on the severity of the damage and the location of the decay. Of course, provided that the goal is only to repair that decay. Not doing things like root canal treatment. ### 1. Filling teeth with amalgam Amalgam is one of the oldest and most common materials used to fill teeth. This substance is a combination of various metals such as silver, tin, copper and mercury and is placed in the tooth as a paste-like mixture. One of the distinctive features of amalgam is its high durability. That is, when this material is used as a filling material for cavities and tooth decay, the tooth becomes strong and similar to its original state. Of course, the color of this material is dark, and for this reason, it is mostly used for back teeth. Where the appearance of the teeth is less of a priority. Amalgam is very resistant to chewing pressure and can remain in the tooth for years without needing to be replaced. However, some people prefer to use alternative materials due to concerns about mercury in amalgam. The use of amalgam is usually considered an economic option for the treatment of tooth decay due to its lower cost compared to other methods. ### 2. **Tooth filling with composite** Composite is another filling material. A tooth-colored resin material designed exclusively for front teeth filling. In addition to maintaining the natural beauty of the teeth, this material also has high flexibility. It means that it easily sticks to the tooth, becomes the shape desired by the dentist and restores the natural shape of the tooth. This method is more suitable for people who suffered from front tooth decay and care about the beauty of their smile. However, be careful that composite is less resistant to high pressures than amalgam and may be more fragile. In addition, compared to amalgam, it costs more. ### 3. **Using inlay and onlay** Inlays and onlays are indirect restorations that are made in a dental laboratory and then placed on the tooth in the office. These types of restorations are usually made of ceramic or porcelain materials and therefore can be very similar to natural teeth. The use of inlays and onlays is more suitable for extensive caries or teeth that were severely damaged. Also, since inlays and onlays are made in a lab, they require more time to prepare and the decay treatment process may take up to two or three sessions. These restorations are usually much more durable than traditional fillings and can easily withstand the pressures of chewing food. The last advantage of inlay and onlay is its strength and natural appearance, which is easily combined with the color of the teeth. **Read more:** The cost of repairing a decayed front tooth ### 4. **dental veneer** Dental crown is another method that is used when the tooth structure is severely damaged or a large amount of it is lost. A veneer is a type of tooth covering that completely covers the surface of the tooth and protects it from further damage. Veneers can be made of various materials such as metal, ceramic, or a combination of these materials. They are used both for the front teeth (which are important to look good) and for the back teeth which are under a lot of pressure. Using a veneer can improve chewing function, protect the damaged tooth from future damage, maintain the beautiful appearance of the teeth, and return the tooth to its original state. ### 5. **repair with laser** Laser restoration is a new method in dentistry in which a laser is used to remove decayed tooth tissue and prepare it for filling. One of the great advantages of this method is to reduce the patient's pain and discomfort. The laser operates with high precision and can cause less damage to the tooth tissues. Because the laser can precisely remove the decayed tissue, less anesthesia is needed. Of course, there are some important points about laser tooth restoration. First of all, this method is more useful for treating small caries or sensitive areas of the tooth. Secondly, the laser only removes the caries in the tooth and has no effect on the treatment of that tooth. Also keep in mind that the cost of tooth restoration is higher than other methods. Of course, its comfort and pain reduction can double its appeal to patients. Tooth decay repair steps Tooth decay repair is done in several important steps. The process that begins with the examination and diagnosis of the severity and volume of decay. At this stage, the dentist identifies the extent and location of decay by examining the teeth and using radiological images to determine the most appropriate treatment method. Then, to reduce the patient's pain and discomfort, he applies local anesthesia to the desired area, thus making the patient feel no pain during the treatment. After injecting anesthesia, the dentist uses specialized tools to remove the decayed tissue and prepare the tooth for the next step, i.e. filling or restoration. Finally, the tooth is filled with one of the mentioned methods such as amalgam, composite or other restorative methods and the structure of the tooth is restored to maintain its function and beauty. The cost of tooth decay repair Factors such as the severity of the decay, the type of material used to repair the decay, and the expertise of the dentist are the main factors that affect the price of tooth decay. If you want to know the approximate cost of each tooth decay repair method, you can use the following guide: - **Tooth restoration with amalgam:** The cheapest option with high durability - **Restoration of teeth with composite, or restoration of teeth with materials of the same color:** A little more expensive, but better in terms of aesthetics - **Tooth restoration with inlay and onlay:** Higher cost due to manufacturing in the laboratory - **Tooth restoration with veneer:** The most expensive option, but with better durability and performance If you want to get a more accurate price for any of the tooth decay repair methods, you can also contact the dental clinic of your choice so that an updated and accurate price can be calculated for you. Pain and discomfort after tooth decay restoration

The presence of pain and discomfort after tooth decay repair is usually minor, temporary and normal. But severe pain can be an alarm that shows you that something is not right! Of course, be careful that the amount of pain can vary depending on the type of repair (its extent), the effect of the anesthetic and the amount of tolerance of the person. Most people feel a slight sensitivity to cold and heat for a few days after filling or veneering their teeth. Or they get toothache while chewing food. This sensitivity is caused by the stimulation of the tooth nerve and the body's reaction to restorative materials, and it is one of the natural sensitivities. But in some cases, especially if the decay is deep and close to the underlying tissues of the tooth, the person may feel more pain. Pain that is controlled only by taking painkillers or following the dentist's recommendations. The local anesthesia used during the treatment also has an effect on the pain intensity after the repair. Especially in the early hours after the repair. In any case, to reduce the pain and discomfort caused by the removal or restoration of decay, it is better to avoid consuming very hot or very cold foods and avoid chewing hard materials on the restored tooth. Maintaining oral and dental hygiene, gentle brushing and flossing can also help speed up recovery. Finally, if the pain continues for more than a few days or its intensity increases, it may be a sign of an underlying problem such as inflammation of the dental nerve or mismatch of the restoration, in which case you should consult your dentist.

Care after tooth decay repair - Avoiding eating and drinking until the numbness wears off (to prevent unwanted lip or tongue biting) - Avoiding very hot or very cold foods and drinks (to reduce tooth sensitivity) - Not chewing hard and sticky foods (such as nuts, candy, or gum, especially on a restored tooth) - Maintaining oral and dental hygiene (brushing twice a day with toothpaste containing fluoride and using dental floss) - Rinsing the mouth with salt water or antiseptic mouthwashes (to reduce inflammation and prevent infection) - If you feel pain, take painkillers as recommended by the dentist (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen). Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth (if needed, use a dental guard at night) - See a dentist in case of severe pain, long-term sensitivity or feeling of inconsistency in the restoration - Regular dental checkup to check the health of the restoration and prevent new caries Ways to prevent tooth decay

To prevent tooth decay, you should try to maintain your oral hygiene. You should try to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to prevent bacterial plaque build-up. Reducing the consumption of sweet and acidic foods, drinking enough water and having a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamins are among the things that help strengthen tooth enamel. Regular visits to the dentist for examination, varnishing and scaling can also prevent new caries. **final summary** Tooth decay is one of the most common oral and dental problems that, if neglected, can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss. There are different methods to repair tooth decay, which are chosen depending on the severity of the damage and the patient's condition. However, the best solution is to prevent caries by observing oral and dental hygiene, having a healthy diet and visiting the dentist regularly. Considering the impact of oral health on the quality of life, tooth decay should not be ignored, but more serious problems should be avoided with preventive measures and timely treatment.