RESTORATIVE DENTAL TREATMENTS

Decay is a bacterial process that begins in the enamel of the tooth and, left untreated, advances into the dentine, the pulp and the surrounding bone. Caught early, a filling may be enough; in more advanced cases root canal treatment or extraction can become necessary.

From the moment decay starts to the point it runs deep, it passes through four stages.

01 · Enamel decay

A white or brown mark on the surface. It is painless. It can be reversed with fluoride application and good oral care.

02 · Dentine decay

The enamel has been breached and the dentine reached. Sensitivity to cold and heat may begin. A composite filling is required.

03 · Pulpal decay

The decay has reached the nerve of the tooth (the pulp). There is throbbing pain. Root canal treatment is necessary.

04 · Abscess and loss

The infection has spread to the root tip, an abscess has formed or the tooth has lost its structural integrity. Extraction and an implant may be considered.

What is done according to the depth of decay?

Discoloured mark, no pain

A change in colour visible on the surface. Fluoride application, good care and regular check-ups may be enough. A routine appointment is recommended.

Sensitivity, visible cavity

There is sensitivity to cold and heat, and the decay is found by eye or on an X-ray. A composite filling is placed. An appointment within a week is appropriate.

Throbbing pain, large cavity

The pulp is affected; root canal treatment is required. Where there is a risk of abscess, same-day emergency assessment is recommended.

Decay is diagnosed in four steps.

Visual examination

Assessment of the tooth surfaces and the spaces between the teeth under light and magnification. Early decay can be identified by a change in colour.

Periapical X-ray

This is critical for finding approximal decay (between the teeth) that is not visible on the tooth surface, and secondary decay beneath existing fillings.

Laser fluorescence or fibre-optic tests

Supplementary diagnostic methods that can detect early demineralisation of the enamel surface before it is visible to the clinical eye.

A written treatment plan

Depending on the depth of decay, the options of a filling, an inlay, a crown or root canal treatment are set out in writing along with the alternatives.

Your daily routine for preventing decay.

About tooth decay.

Frequently asked questions about restorative treatment

Does decay heal on its own?

Only demineralisation at the earliest stage (confined to the enamel surface) can be reversed with fluoride application and good oral hygiene. Decay that has reached the dentine does not heal on its own; a restoration (filling) is required.

Is decay always painless?

Decay confined to the enamel and the superficial dentine is usually not felt. Pain begins once the decay reaches the depths close to the pulp. This is why six-monthly routine check-ups are critical for catching early decay.

Should decay in milk teeth be treated?

Yes. Milk teeth hold the space for the permanent teeth and guide jaw development. Decayed milk teeth should be treated rather than left to fall out on their own; otherwise infection, pain and later orthodontic problems can develop.

Which filling material should be chosen?

A composite (white) filling is preferred in most cases; it offers the advantages of appearance and adhesion to the tooth. Where the loss is very deep or extensive, an inlay or onlay (made in the laboratory) or a crown may be recommended. We do not use amalgam fillings for new work at our clinic.

What should I do to prevent decay?

Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, using floss, cutting down how often you have sugary and acidic drinks, and a professional clean every six months are the core preventive measures. In children, fissure sealants give the back teeth additional protection.

Book a consultation for restorative dental treatment

The first consultation is free of charge. The assessment and the treatment plan are decided together during the consultation.