Tooth decay is a progressive disease resulting in the interaction of bacteria that naturally occur on the teeth and sugars in the everyday diet. Sugar causes a reaction with the bacteria, causing it to produce acids that break down the mineral in teeth, forming a cavity. Nerve damage can result from severe decay and may require a root canal and crown to salvage the tooth. Costly dental procedures as well as severe pain are most often a result of neglect. Avoiding unnecessary decay requires consistent adherence to a dental hygiene regimen: brushing and flossing twice a day, regular dental checkups and professional cleaning, diet control and sometimes fluoride treatment. Practicing good hygiene avoids unhealthy teeth and costly treatment.

Dr. Martin will examine your teeth twice a year at the time of your cleanings. Keep in mind that tooth decay is symptom free for a very long time. We caution you to not "wait until it hurts." Since your teeth do not have the capacity to heal themselves, a cavity will only get bigger and more complex to restore. Early restoration of a small cavity is definitely in your own best interest.

If Dr. Martin detects decay, he will remove the decay and fill the tooth with a beautiful, tooth-colored resin, restoring the tooth to a healthy state. Due to new advances in composite resins (like the material used in fighter airplane wings), these resins are now superior to the old "silver" fillings in strength and durability. In addition, they now have a stronger retention (chemically bonding to the tooth walls) than the old "silver" fillings. Also, there is no concern for any possible problems with mercury in the resin filling material. Because of this, Dr. Martin now uses tooth-colored composite resin fillings when fillings are needed.

Sometimes a new medication can cause saliva to dry up, creating an unhealthy, dry environment for the teeth. Without the regular secretion of saliva, cavities form. Adults with a sudden high incidence of decay will be asked to come in more frequently for an exam in order to diagnose any cavities at an early, small stage.

Back to top