Introduction
In order to remove a caries, the dentist must be sure how deep and extensive the tooth is. There are various options available to him for this purpose. On the one hand, caries detectors, i.e. liquids that stain on contact with carious areas, are used.
X-ray overview pictures (OPGs) or small images of individual teeth (tooth film) allow the exact assessment of the depth of caries. Since X-rays are generally associated with radiation exposure of the body, an image is not always taken in the case of caries. As soon as a “rotten tooth” is discovered as such, the actual removal of the caries begins.
The treatment of caries differs depending on the stage of the disease. A “real caries” is always preceded by a decalcification process in the area of the enamel (initial caries). These decalcifications are visible as small white spots, so-called “white spots” on the tooth surface and can be quickly controlled with simple means.
It is recommended to use toothpastes containing fluoride, which remineralize the tooth and harden it from the outside. This prevents the caries from spreading further and the tooth is healed. When using such fluoride-containing toothpastes, it is absolutely necessary to follow the instructions of the dentist (usually use once a week), because an overdose quickly results in unsightly fluoride deposits.
If the infestation is not removed at this stage, the caries will spread further into the depth of the tooth. As soon as not only the enamel but also the dentin is affected, it is called dentine caries. This causes the characteristic “hole in the tooth” and must be removed more extensively.
In this case, the dentist will remove (drill out) the carious areas and a minimal part of the healthy tooth substance. The portion of still undamaged tooth substance will be removed in order to prevent the development of a new caries defect under the later filling (secondary caries). After the caries-free hole has dried, the dentist fills it with filling material. Basically, a distinction is made between rigid and plastic filling materials.
