Half Moon Bay Marina Dentists
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Cavity Treatment

Cavities are the most widespread chronic infectious disease in the human population, leading to the erosion of the hard tissues of teeth. Cavities develop due to demineralization of the tooth caused by acids produced by Streptococcus mutans bacteria, which reside in the human oral cavity. Treating cavities in Auckland, as elsewhere, is one of the most frequent requests from dental patients.  

Stages of Cavity Development
1. White Spot Stage
At the early stage, a milky white spot appears on the tooth surface, representing enamel demineralization caused by acid from bacterial activity. This demineralization can be reversible if appropriate remineralization measures are taken. At this stage, the cavity may be invisible to the eye and painless but is more porous and susceptible to forming a cavity.
2. Superficial Cavity
At this stage, a cavity has formed in the enamel, with pigmentation at the site. Superficial cavities may develop on various surfaces:
  • Near the gum line: Caused by inadequate hygiene in this area.
  • On chewing surfaces: Where food particles and bacteria easily accumulate in fissures and grooves.
  • On the sides of teeth: Usually found between teeth and in areas difficult to clean with a toothbrush. If left untreated, the cavity progresses into the deeper layers of the tooth, reaching the dentin.
3. Medium Cavity
When decay reaches the dentin, sensitivity to cold, hot, acidic, sweet, and touch arises, as dentin is connected to the pulp by dentinal tubules. At this stage, decay accelerates since dentin is softer than enamel, and the cavity becomes a site for food accumulation, which further feeds bacteria. If untreated, decay advances toward the pulp.
4. Deep Cavity
Deep decay is an advanced form of dental caries that penetrates into the deep layers of the tooth, affecting dentin and sometimes the pulp (nerve tissue). This stage is more serious than superficial or medium cavities, requiring more complex and costly treatment. When untreated, infection reaches the pulp, causing inflammation and intense pain. Without immediate treatment, tooth extraction may be necessary.
Stages of Cavity Treatment
  1. Diagnosis: A dentist examines the teeth using a mirror, caries detector, and other instruments. If needed, X-rays are taken to assess the depth of decay and pulp condition.
  2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to ensure a pain-free procedure. This practice is standard for cavity treatment and allows for a smoother communication with the patient, positively impacting the quality of care.
  3. Preparation of Affected Tissues: The dentist uses a drill or other instruments to remove decayed tissue, preserving as much of the tooth’s live tissue as possible. When necessary, a microscope is used.
  4. Preparation of the Cavity: The prepared cavity is disinfected to prevent secondary decay and then etched with phosphoric acid to improve bonding with the filling material.
  5. Filling the Cavity: The cavity is filled layer by layer with a composite light-cured material, each layer hardened by UV light, allowing immediate use of the tooth.
  6. Finishing and Polishing: The filling is shaped anatomically to restore the natural grooves for proper chewing. The filling is then polished to prevent food from sticking, enhancing its tactile quality.
Regular visits to the dentist, along with good hygiene practices, can prevent cavities and their associated complications.