Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List

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Treatment of Dental decay

Tooth decay is treated by drilling out all the decayed matter and filling the cavity. This will be carried out under a local anaesthetic. Several different types of filling can be used depending on the extent of the decay and your dentist will advise you on the available possibilities.

In advanced cases of dental decay where the dental pulp is affected or a dental abscess has been formed, it may be necessary to carry out a root filling on the tooth or even to remove the remaining tooth.   

Prevention is more effective than cure and careful oral hygiene and home care can prevent cavities forming. Regular visits to your dentist will ensure that any problems are caught early and are easy to treat.