Tooth decay is the destruction of the hard, outer surface of the tooth called the enamel which can lead to cavities (caries) in the tooth. Initially, the cavities begin as white spots on the tooth and turn to light brown color. In the later stages, they go deeper and turn into either dark brown or black in color. A child may experience sensitivity and pain around the affected area.
To treat this tooth decay, a dentist is required to remove the decayed part either through a direct restoration or an indirect restoration. In direct restoration, dental fillings replace the damaged part of the tooth and in indirect restoration, crowns, veneers, bridges, inlays, and onlays are used.
Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are the treatment option for an early stage of decay. They are made of different materials such as tooth-colored composite resin, porcelain, or dental amalgam which is a combination of different materials.
The composite fillings come in different shades and match well with the color of the tooth. They are stronger and blend in well with the tooth. Glass ionomer cement is another type of commonly used dental filling that bonds directly to the tooth surface and releases fluoride that prevents further tooth decay.
Stainless-Steel Crowns
Stainless steel crowns are made up of steel, nickel, and chrome to treat decayed teeth. These are prepared in advance with different size ranges. They help to protect the baby’s teeth by covering the entire crown area of the tooth. Usually, these stainless-steel crowns fall out at the same time as the baby tooth is lost and the permanent tooth erupts. These crowns may also be made up of gold, resin, porcelain, and metal fused with porcelain which is commonly used in adults.
