It is a treatment that restores damaged teeth using resin, inlays, crowns, or root canal treatment, depending on the size and location of the cavity.
Cavity treatment is a procedure that removes tooth tissue damaged by bacteria and fills it with materials to restore function and appearance. Depending on the size and location of the cavity, the treatment is divided into stages such as resin (direct filling), inlay/onlay (custom-made), crown (full covering), and root canal treatment.
Resin fillings are completed on the same day using tooth-colored material and require minimal tooth removal. Inlays and onlays are custom-made after taking an impression and then attached (usually requiring two visits) and are suitable for large cavities. Crowns cover the entire tooth, and if the cavity has progressed to the nerve, a prosthetic is placed after root canal treatment.
Resin is used for small cavities, inlays or onlays for medium to large ones, and crowns for extensive damage or after root canal treatment. Early treatment is advantageous because the longer cavities are left untreated, the greater the scope and cost of treatment become.
You may experience sensitivity to cold water and sweet foods for a few days after treatment, but this usually subsides. Regular checkups and proper brushing and flossing prevent recurrence and additional cavities.
Resin can discolor or wear down over time, and forcibly filling large cavities with resin carries a risk of detachment or fracture. It is important to select a material appropriate for the size of the cavity.
For small cavities, resin is convenient and requires minimal removal, while for large cavities, inlays/onlays are advantageous in terms of strength and durability. The decision is made based on the size of the cavity.
Sensitivity for a few days immediately after treatment is common and usually subsides. If it persists or worsens, a follow-up dental visit is necessary.
This information is for general understanding only and is not medical advice. Always consult a medical professional before deciding on any procedure.