Tooth decay affects over 90% of adults to some degree, but everyone’s condition is different. Tooth decay can range from the excessive erosion of your tooth enamel (the outer layer) to the severe infection of your tooth’s pulp (its inner chamber), and any stage between. Because each stage of decay involves a different level of damage and infection to your tooth, addressing your condition will first require thoroughly diagnosing your tooth infection. Then, your dentist can recommend the most appropriate treatment for eliminating the decay and restoring your tooth.

Mild to moderate cavity

As oral bacteria weaken your enamel, the layer around your tooth can eventually develop a small hole. That hole is the beginning stage of the cavity that decay causes in your tooth structure, and it grows larger the longer your condition is left untreated. Fortunately, cavities remain mild to moderate as long as they’re located within your tooth’s main structure, called dentin. Once it’s detected, your dentist can stop the decay and cavity from growing worse with a custom, mercury-free, tooth-colored filling.

Internal tooth decay

When decay reaches the pulp chamber at the center of your tooth’s dentin, it officially becomes internal tooth decay, meaning your tooth’s nerves and tissues have become infected. The pain from internal decay is severe, and it can only be relieved by removing the infected tissues and sealing the pulp (along with the root canal connected to it) through root canal therapy. If performed early enough, root canal therapy can stop decay from ravishing what’s left of your tooth structure and spreading through the root canal connected to the pulp.

Find the Best Treatment for Your Cavity

The best way to treat your specific cavity will depend on the exact severity of your tooth decay. For more information, schedule a consultation by calling Modern Smile in North Hollywood, CA, today at 818-763-9353. We also proudly serve patients who live in Burbank, Toluca Lake, and all surrounding communities.