How a General Dentist Treats Cavities

Tooth decay, or a cavity, is one of the most common oral health problems general dentists treat. In many cases, these dental providers can help prevent cavities before they form. Whether you think you may have a cavity or want to prevent getting one, a general dentist can help.

A general dentist’s role in cavity treatment

A major part of a general dentist’s job is to detect and treat cavities before they cause other oral health issues. However, this is only possible through regular dental checkups. This is one reason why visiting the general dentist for an oral exam and dental cleaning twice a year is recommended.

Cavity detection

A general dentist can detect cavities and other potential issues in the oral examination part of a routine dental checkup. Most patients know this as the part after the dental hygienist finishes cleaning the teeth (i.e., the dental cleaning), in which the dentist comes by to take a look at the mouth. The dentist will look closely at each tooth, probing the surfaces with a dental instrument. Any soft spots or areas on which the instrument catches could be cavities. They will also look for other signs of cavities, such as dark spots on the teeth and tooth sensitivity.

Dental X-rays also play a primary role in cavity detection. This is because cavities can hide between the teeth and extend below the gums, reaching into the root of the tooth. Thus, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends these X-rays every two to three years for healthy adults and more frequently (every six to 18 months) for those at an increased risk for developing cavities or conditions such as gum disease. The dental hygienist can take these scans at the beginning of a routine dental checkup, and the general dentist can read them as part of the oral exam.

The general dentist can then recommend and perform restorative dental treatments for any cavities. The size and depth of the cavity will determine the treatment. Still, the goal is always to restore the smile’s overall function and alleviate any related tooth pain.

Cavity treatments from a general dentist

A general dentist can treat cavities in several ways. Here are three of the most common:

Dental fillings

For minor cavities, the general dentist will recommend a dental filling. The procedure is simple: the dentist will remove decay, sanitize the area, then fill and seal the tooth. The filling material will typically be tooth-colored (composite resin) or silver amalgam.

Dental crowns

Dental crowns restore teeth with significant decay. The dentist will place the crown over the tooth after removing the decay. In many cases, crowns look like real teeth — metal crowns only in shape, but porcelain crowns in color and shade too.

Root canal therapy

A general dentist will recommend a root canal procedure for severe cavities in which the decay has reached the tooth root. Many general dentists perform these procedures, although some will refer the patient to a specialist. Either way, the general dentist can help the patient maintain oral health after their tooth has been restored via a root canal.