What causes tooth decay? It is the destruction of the enamel, the protective layer of the tooth, as a result of neglecting oral care.

Deep rotIt is the name given to the progression of decay in the enamel and its spread to the dentin layer underneath.

Inflammation; occurs when deep decay reaches the nerve and bacteria and toxins cause damage to the blood vessels and nerves located there. Bacterial growth and edema that occur here further increase the inflammation.
As a result, the inflammation spreads from the root tip to the outside of the tooth. During this time, very severe pain occurs. Night pain is a symptom of the beginning of the inflammation. Later, the inflammation can spread to the point of swelling in the face. During this spread, the inflammation damages the surrounding tissues and begins to melt the jawbone.

Symptoms of Tooth Decay

• A momentary sensitivity that occurs when eating something hot or cold.
• A gap felt in the tooth, sharp protrusions, tiny breaks.
• Food residue getting stuck between the teeth
• Pain that occurs occasionally or constantly.
• Pain when pressure is applied to the tooth.

Treatment of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay can be treated in two ways. The first method is filling treatment and the second method is root canal treatment.

Filling Types

There are two types of fillings: amalgam (metal) fillings and composite (light-cured) fillings.

Amalgam Fillings

• It consists of a mixture of special metal alloy powder and mercury.
• It is preferred because it is very durable.
• It may darken over time and aesthetic An image that is not the same as the original may appear. This is due to the corrosion of some of the metal alloys in its content.
• After the filling is placed, it may shrink a little. This can cause cold sensitivity and future decay.
• There are different types, not all amalgam fillings are the same. They have different properties depending on the content of the metal alloy and the percentage of metals.
• These fillings adhere to the tooth mechanically. Therefore, the process of opening the space in the tooth must be done well and abundantly.

Light Cured Composite Fillings

• Made from various types of composites.
• There are various types (classic, chlorine releasing, containing porcelain particles)
• It is preferred because it is aesthetic and tooth-colored.
• Older types of composites can wear out or break over time.
• The most common composite types (especially those containing porcelain particles) are very durable and do not wear or break.
• Shrinkage during filling is less in composites.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold is rare after the filling.
• Composites containing fluoride-releasing substances have a protective and decay-preventive effect on teeth.
• These fillings adhere to the tooth through micromechanical or chemical means. With this method, fewer spaces can be created in the tooth.