Tooth decay is caries and requires either filling treatment or root canal treatment depending on the depth of decay.
Dental caries is a bacterial invasion of the tooth, which causes the tooth to collapse after demineralization, and the treatment needs to be selected according to the depth of caries.
1. Shallow and medium caries: caries only affects the enamel layer or dentin layer, and can be filled directly after removing the decayed tissues, often choosing composite resin or glass ionomer.
2. Deep caries: caries affects the deep dentin layer, and there is no obvious inflammation in the pulp, after removing the decayed tissues, calcium hydroxide is needed to protect the pulp, and then composite resin or glass ionomer is used for filling treatment.
3. Pulpitis and periapical inflammation: caries has spread to the pulp, causing inflammation of the pulp or periapical tissues, root canal treatment is needed to remove the decayed tissues and infected pulp, and then filling is carried out.
Dental caries are progressive, if left untreated, unless the caries-causing conditions disappear, generally continue to progress, so prevention is the key, early detection and early treatment is the main treatment measures. It is recommended to go to a regular hospital and have regular checkups.