Ever tried brushing vigorously to get rid of a dark spot on your tooth, only to be disappointed? If the answer is yes, you may have something called dental caries.
-by Dr Syeda Rehma Hasan
It is hard to find a person who has never had a cavity. They can happen to the best of us! Healthy people with a comprehensive oral hygiene routine and even dentists can develop it. ‘Prevention is better than cure’ but what to do if you spot a cavity?
The treatment for 'dark spot'
Early intervention is the way to go, as it saves time and money. The treatment plan depends on the extent of the decay. If detected early, a simple fluoride treatment should suffice. It will not only repair the dark spot on tooth but also stop further damage to the tooth structure. The effectiveness of such procedures will depend on the subject’s dedication to dental hygiene. Lack of patient compliance will render it useless.
Going deeper
If the decay extends beyond the enamel, a dentist may explore other options. This could involve fillings and root canals, depending on the tooth layer involved. Tooth fillings will work as long as the pulp is not compromised. However, pulp involvement will require a root canal treatment, whereby canals are cleaned and sealed. Lastly, the non-restorable teeth will require extraction.
Tips and tricks/ Home remedies
Some people may resort to home remedies while the cavity is still in its initial stages. Regular use of kinds of toothpaste with the right amount of fluoride can reverse this process. It may be useful to use a fluoride mouthwash, but it is best to do so under guidance. Moreover, according to Healthline, xylitol-rich chewing gums can encourage the re-mineralization of enamel. It is a bad idea to try these as a replacement for dental visits.
Healthy habits
Having a carious and painful tooth is nothing less than a nightmare. Therefore, good oral hygiene practice is key to having a spot-free and healthy dentition. Regular visits to a dentist keep us informed about the status of our oral health. This helps to keep the treatments away.
-The author is contributing writer and Canadian correspondent at Dental News Pakistan and can be reached at rehmahasan@gmail.com
