Tooth Decay - Treatment



Tooth decay is usually treated with a filling. The dentist first removes all of the decayed material with a drill. The opening is then filled with some

The development of dental cavities in three stages. (Reproduced by permission of Biophoto Associates/Science Source/Photo Researchers, Inc.)
The development of dental cavities in three stages. (Reproduced by permission of
Biophoto Associates/Science Source/Photo Researchers, Inc.
)

long-lasting material. Two common materials are mercury amalgam (pronounced uh-MAL-gum) and composite resin. A mercury amalgam consists of a mixture of metals that is strong and resistant to wear. A composite resin is a sturdy, plastic-like material.

Additional treatment may be necessary if decay has reached the pulp of the tooth. In that case, the center part of the tooth may also have to be removed. This procedure is called a root canal. The decayed material is taken out and replaced with a metal pin. The tooth is then covered with an artificial coating called a crown.

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