Theme III: Diseases and types

Type: About Cavities

Source:
1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892
2. https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-cavities#1
3. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/c/cavities
4. https://www.medicinenet.com/cavities/article.htm#treatment_of_cavities_during_pregnan
cy
5. https://www.colgateprofessional.com/education/patient-education/topics/caries/all-about-
cavities

Body:
About Cavities

Cavities are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that
develop into tiny openings or holes.
Cavities, also called tooth decay or caries, are caused by a combination of
factors, including bacteria in your mouth, frequent snacking, sipping sugary
drinks and not cleaning your teeth well.
Cavities and tooth decay are among the world's most common health problems.
They're especially common in children, teenagers and older adults.

Types of Cavities

1. Early childhood caries: In young children, teeth that have recently

emerged have weak enamel and are highly susceptible to acid decay. A
type of decay called baby bottle tooth decay or early childhood
caries destroys enamel quickly and is common in children. This type of
decay can eat through enamel and leave a large cavity in a matter of
months.

2. Chronic caries: Older adults sometimes have chronic caries: cavities that
don't seem to get any worse or do so at a very slow rate. Teeth with
chronic caries will tend to be darker in colour because the edges of the
cavities become stained from normal eating and drinking.
3. Root caries: are more common in older adults. Older adults are more
likely to have gums that have receded from years of hard brushing or
periodontal disease. They also are more likely to have dry mouth
(xerostomia), which increases the risk of decay
4. Root decay. This type of decay is the most common type among older
adults who are more likely to have receding gums. It occurs on the
surface of the roots of the teeth.

5. Pit and fissure decay. This type of decay occurs on the chewing surfaces
of the back teeth. It can be prevented with proper tooth brushing;
however, if you’re inconsistent in your oral hygiene, this type of decay
can quickly become severe.

6. Smooth surface decay. This type of decay occurs on the outside flat

surface of the teeth when bacteria is not removed and plaque builds up.
It’s the least serious kind and may be treatable with fluoride. It’s also
helpful to know that this type of decay may be positively impacted by
regular and proper dental flossing.
Theme I: How to save money on healthcare
Type: Treatment of Cavities
Source:
1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/diagnosis-treatment/drc-
20352898
2. https://www.healthline.com/find-care/articles/dentists/tooth-cavities#complications
3. https://sabkadentist.com/dental-cavities/
4. https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/qa/how-are-cavities-treated
5. https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/cavitity-treatments-what-are-ways-to-treat-cavities/

Body:

Treatment of Cavities

1. Fluoride treatments
a. If your cavity just started, a fluoride treatment may help restore
your tooth's enamel and can sometimes reverse a cavity in the very
early stages.
b. Fluoride treatments may be liquid, gel, foam or varnish that's
brushed onto your teeth or placed in a small tray that fits over your
teeth.

2. Fillings
a. Fillings, also called restorations, are the main treatment option
when decay has progressed beyond the earliest stage.
b. Fillings are made of various materials, such as tooth-coloured
composite resins, porcelain or dental amalgam that is a
combination of several materials.

3. Crowns
a. For extensive decay or weakened teeth, you may need a crown — a
custom-fitted covering that replaces your tooth's entire natural
crown.
b. Your dentist drills away all the decayed area and enough of the rest
of your tooth to ensure a good fit.

4. Root canals
 a. When decay reaches the inner material of your tooth (pulp), you
may need a root canal. This is a treatment to repair and save a
badly damaged or infected tooth instead of removing it
b. The diseased tooth pulp is removed. Medication is sometimes put
into the root canal to clear any infection. Then the pulp is replaced
with a filling.

5. Tooth extractions
a. Some teeth become so severely decayed that they can't be restored
and must be removed
b. Having a tooth pulled can leave a gap that allows your other teeth
to shift. If possible, consider getting a bridge or a dental implant to
replace the missing tooth.

6. Dealing with pain

a. Cavities and tooth decay can be the cause of a lot of pain and
discomfort. You may want to find ways to soothe irritation while
you wait for your dentist appointment.
b. There are a few things you can do to deal with discomfort
temporarily:
i. Keep up your oral hygiene routine. Continue to brush and
clean all parts of your mouth, including any sensitive areas.
ii. Try over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. Check with your
doctor if you can use OTC anaesthetics.
iii. Watch what you eat. Stay away from extremely hot or cold
foods when eating or drinking.