Cavity Treatment and Prevention with an Emphasis on Conservative Care
Cavities develop when areas of tooth decay are left untreated. Minimally invasive procedures, such as dental fillings, can generally prevent widespread damage. Left untreated, however, cavities may necessitate crowns, root canal therapy, or even extraction. The dentists at Children’s Dental of Waltham have over 25 years of experience performing cavity treatment. At their Waltham, MA, practice, they will use the most conservative option possible, but they can also deliver beautifully lifelike restorations when necessary. Most importantly, they are committed to your child’s overall well-being. They will do everything they can to keep even our youngest patients comfortable in the exam chair. Then they will provide ongoing care and guidance to help minimize their risk of developing cavities in the future.
Cavity Treatment Options
If your child is suffering from tooth decay, the right treatment method will depend on its severity.
- In the initial stages of decay, before a cavity actually develops, white spots may appear on the outside of a tooth. Your dentist can treat these spots using a fluoride rinse or varnish, which is intended to promote remineralization.
- Fillings are the most common treatment for small to mid-sized cavities. At Children’s Dental of Waltham, we proudly offer tooth-colored fillings. Not only will these restorations blend in with your little one’s smile. They typically require less preparation to the area than metal fillings and are considered to be more durable.
- If the decay has destroyed a substantial portion of your child’s tooth, we may recommend a crown. This larger, custom-made restoration will completely cap the damaged tooth.
- Extraction is a last resort. Nonetheless, if decay has damaged a tooth beyond repair, removal can keep the bacteria from spreading and endangering the health of surrounding tissue.
The Importance of Treating Cavities
Early detection is essential for successfully treating cavities. The sooner we can diagnose and address decay, the more likely it is that we can save your child’s tooth. Plus, immediate treatment can prevent more serious and widespread oral health issues. Nearby teeth could be affected and the microbes could also reach the gums, leading to gum disease and requiring treatments like scaling and root planing. In severe cases, if bacteria affect the jaw and surrounding tissues, eventually entering the bloodstream, your child could suffer a life-threatening infection.
Early detection is essential for successfully treating cavities. The sooner we diagnose and address decay, the more likely it is that we can save your child’s tooth.
Preventing Future Dental Decay
Although our team strives to repair cavities as soon as possible to protect your child’s health, our first goal is to keep decay from developing in the first place. For that reason, we heavily emphasize at-home care and will teach your child the most effective ways to brush and floss. A healthy diet, low in sugars and refined starches, is also essential. Of course, your child also needs regular professional care, since you cannot remove all areas of plaque and tartar buildup on your own. We recommend biannual dental visits even before your child’s first tooth comes in. That way, we can eliminate harmful substances and check for the earliest signs of decay.
Contact Children’s Dental of Waltham Today
Whether your child already has a cavity or you are simply seeking comprehensive preventive care, we can provide the outstanding services you deserve. Contact us online to book an appointment with our compassionate, friendly team. You can also give us a call at (781) 899-7070.
