When you start noticing some changes in your teeth, it’s natural to worry about the fate of your smile. Is it possible to save bad teeth? How late is too late? At Aspire Dental Wellness, we specialize in giving smiles a second chance, even when they seem beyond saving. Here are all the possible treatment routes that can get your dental health back on track.
Bottom Line – Is It Possible to Save Bad Teeth?
So, can a rotten tooth be saved? Yes, absolutely! However, the exact treatment and its outcome depend on how advanced the decay is. In the early stages, a simple tooth cleaning or a dental filling is more than enough. In later stages, a root canal might be necessary to save the tooth.
How Common Is Tooth Decay?
All that brushing and flossing your Charlotte, NC, dentist talks about is not just them being overly cautious. A good oral hygiene routine doesn’t just keep your teeth sparkling – it protects your gums and breath, and as our holistic dentistry practice teaches us, your overall well-being as well.
However, even with a diligent routine, cavities can develop. In fact, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, around 90% of adults are dealing with a certain level of decay.
How Does Tooth Decay Occur?
It’s a complex process, starting with bacteria that feed on starches and sugars from food particles. These bacteria form a sticky film known as plaque on the surface of the tooth. The plaque releases acids, and this, in turn, damages the enamel, which is the outer layer of the tooth. Left untreated, decay can progress over time and even reach deeper into the tooth itself. Because of this development, there are several different stages of tooth decay, and how we treat it exactly depends on this. So, let’s go through these phases and share the best possible routes for each one.
Early Stages – A Professional Cleaning Is More Than Enough
The first stage of decay is what we call demineralization, which is characterized by the formation of white spots on the surface of the teeth. The good news is that with the help of your Charlotte dentist in SouthPark, this process is completely reversible and other steps will be taken to prevent further development.
The solution is as simple as scheduling a dental cleaning and exam. Professional cleaning will help to remineralize the tooth enamel, effectively making it stronger, and the dentist will be able to catch any issues early on. So, even if you’re not dealing with tooth decay at the moment, you should still schedule this routine visit every six months.
Our Practice of Laser Dentistry in Charlotte, NC, Provides Both Comfort and Results
At the Aspire Dental Wellness clinic, you’ve got the option of getting laser deep cleaning. Compared to traditional methods, it’s a far less invasive procedure, and the results are pretty remarkable. Advanced laser dentistry for cavities is truly changing how we tackle this common oral health predicament.
Enamel Decay – Usually Treated With a Simple Dental Filling
If decay is one step further from just demineralization, dental fillings might do the trick. The decayed part of the tooth will be removed safely, and this area will be filled with biocompatible material, such as composite resin or porcelain. That way, the tooth’s function is restored, and further decay is prevented, that is, if you keep up good oral hygiene.
Dentin Decay – Dental Crowns May Be Needed
The next phase happens when the decay moves past the enamel and into the softer layer underneath, known as dentin. This part of the tooth structure is made up of tiny, interconnected tubules, allowing bacteria to penetrate further.
If dentin decay is in its early stages, a simple filling can often be an effective solution. However, if it’s advanced, a dental crown might be needed. A crown, which acts as a cap over the entire tooth, will strengthen it and protect it from further decay.
At Aspire Dental Wellness, we offer personalized treatment plans, including selecting the perfect type of crown based on your oral health. After all, it’s your smile makeover, which is just as unique as you are!
Root Canal Treatment Is the Last Course of Action
When the decay reaches the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth, or a tooth abscess forms, root canal treatment is usually needed. The infected pulp will be removed, and everything will be cleaned, disinfected, and filled. As a result, the tooth can be saved even in the later stages of decay, and further infection will be prevented.
Our Dentist in Charlotte, NC, Will Create a Customized Plan for Your Smile
As it’s pretty clear by now, the exact treatment plan will depend on the extent of decay and your overall oral health. However, all case scenarios start with booking a dentist appointment. From there, we’ll assess your teeth, have a conversation about your options, and come up with the best route for your smile.
From That Point On, Just Keep Up With a Good Routine
Once our team helps you get your dental health back on track, it’s all about maintenance from that point on. Keep up with a solid oral hygiene routine, brushing and flossing regularly. It’s also wise to limit sugary and acidic foods, as they create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. This includes:
- Sticky sweets and candies,
- Carbonated soft drinks,
- Starchy and sticky foods.
Also, make sure to schedule routine check-ups – the American Dental Association recommends doing this every six months. That way, the dentist will be able to spot any issues early on, and you’ll be well on your way to keeping healthy teeth for years to come.
Visit Our Advanced Cosmetic & Laser Dentistry Practice for a Personalized Plan
Ready to take your smile back to its old glory? Contact us today to make a reservation! Our experienced team, led by Dr. Sladjana Bjelac, is here to provide personalized care, preventative treatments, and expert advice so your smile stays healthy and bright! Why wait? You and your dental health deserve the best!
