Yedi Eylül Mahallesi, İzmir Bulvarı No 31/15, Efeler/Aydın, Turkey
DENTAL CARIES TREATMENT
DENTAL CARIES TREATMENT
What is caries? Why does it happen?
Tooth decay is a condition that occurs as a result of regional
destruction of tooth tissue by microorganisms. Dealing with dental
caries and preventing its formation is the most important task of
dentists.
How Is It Treated?
First of all, the caries susceptibility of individuals is evaluated.
Patients should be checked in a periodic manner as per the
recommendations of the dentist. Dentists identify individuals with
high caries risk and take appropriate preventive measures. Caries
formation may be due to reasons that are not under the control of
the patient, such as general health, immune system, salivary
secretion, or reasons under the control of the patient, such as oral
care, diet and sugar consumption. The treatment method should be
chosen according to the cause.
Fluoride Application
One of the most important methods in protective dentistry is fluoride
application to the teeth. Fluoride increases the resistance of teeth
against acids, and prevents the damage of microorganisms to the
teeth with its antibacterial effect. It also neutralizes plaque
formation. It is beneficial to apply fluoride, especially in children,
under the supervision of a dentist. Depending on the risk of caries, it
is recommended to apply fluoride to the teeth at least twice a year.
Fissure Sealers
The irregularities on the chewing surfaces of our teeth create a
suitable environment for microorganisms and food residues to settle,
and often become the starting point of caries. Creating a smooth
surface by covering these indentations, especially at an early age,
when the caries has not yet formed or at the initial stage of the
caries, is one of our most important tools in the fight against caries.
Healing Process
Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day. Oral hygiene should be
provided well, especially before going to bed at night. If the physician
deems it appropriate, mouthwash can be used. Dietary adjustment
should be made. Sticky foods such as raisins and figs should be
avoided. In addition, foods such as chocolate should not be kept in
the mouth for a long time. Consuming foods such as cheese and milk
helps protect teeth from decay. Apples, carrots, peanuts increase
saliva flow, but it should not be forgotten that acidic foods may cause
tooth erosion. Advanced age and some of the drugs may reduce the
flow of saliva. Such patients are recommended to chew sugar-free
gum, especially after a meal.
Post-Treatment Considerations
The determining factor of treatment is patient compliance and
attention to oral hygiene. If the visits to the dentist are made
regularly, not only when the discomfort arises, but at certain periods,
the caries can be caught before it progresses, while the treatment is
easy.