Cavities, also called tooth decay or caries, are common dental problems. In fact, a cavity is a dissolved part of the tooth enamel. This exposes the underlying dentin. Do you have a hole in your tooth or molar? It is important to have a cavity treated as soon as possible. This way you prevent major complications from occurring. Would you like to have a hole in your tooth or molar filled? Then contact us. Our experienced dentists are happy to help you.
How does a cavity occur in the tooth?
Our saliva is full of bacteria. When food is added, these bacteria turn the food waste into acid. This acid is harmful to our teeth and can “bite” through the enamel. That way, holes are created in our teeth. If the oral hygiene is not good and the teeth are not cleaned properly, this can lead to the cavity getting deeper or larger and the dentine to be affected. This can have major consequences. Once a hole has developed in the tooth, it is impossible to reverse this process naturally. To prevent the hole from enlarging or causing complications, it is necessary to have the hole filled by a dentist.
Causes cavities
Cavities can be caused by:
- Dental plaque: the bacteria in your dental plaque attack the teeth and molars, which can cause cavities.
- Poor oral hygiene: if you don’t brush your teeth properly, more and more plaque builds up on and between your teeth.
- Eating and drinking starchy or sweet foods: this promotes plaque build-up. Reduced saliva: Reduced saliva can be caused by, among other things, medication use.
Symptoms cavity
It is estimated that 95% of the world’s population will have to deal with cavities. Many people also do not realize that they are dealing with dental caries. This is because cavities are often not visible at first. A cavity often starts with a dark or white spot on the teeth or molars. In the early stages, a hole is painless in most cases. However, when the caries worsens, the teeth can become sensitive. For example, you will likely find yourself bothered by eating or drinking hot or cold foods or drinks. Do you suffer from sensitive teeth or a toothache? Then contact your dentist as soon as possible. He or she can determine the cause and draw up a personal treatment plan for you.
Fill a hole at the dentist
Filling a hole is done as follows:
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Drying the tooth or molar: the dentist places a clip around your tooth or molar and places a rubber cloth around it. We also call this the “drying out” of the tooth. Drying ensures that no saliva reaches the tooth during drilling.
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Drilling: The dentist will drill away the affected area of your tooth enamel using a small drill. Then he removes the affected dentin with a soft drill.
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Filling: the dentist fills the hole with composite, after a special glue has been applied to the tooth.
Prevent caries
Good oral care is the basis for healthy teeth. To minimize the risk of cavities, it is important to take good care of your teeth. To do this, follow the tips below:
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Brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day.
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Use a toothbrush with a soft bristled head.
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Or better: use an electric toothbrush.
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Clean the spaces between your teeth with dental floss, brushes or toothpicks.
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Limit the number of eating and drinking moments to 7 times a day.
Filling rates
The costs for a root canal and other dental treatments are determined annually by the Dutch Healthcare Authority (NZa). This is done on behalf of the government. For example, the costs for dental treatment are the same in all Dutch dental practices. View our rates page for an overview of the costs in 2020.
Contact
Do you have questions about filling a hole at the dentist or about fillings? Or do you suspect a hole in your tooth or molar? Feel free to contact us by calling 020-3455345. We are available Monday to Thursday from 8.30 am to 11.30 am and from 1.30 pm to 4.30 pm. Or fill in the contact form. We will contact you as soon as possible. Are you in a lot of pain? Then it is important that you contact us immediately.
Adresgegevens
Tandartsenpraktijk Carmenlaan
Carmenlaan 361
1183 SM Amstelveen
Openingstijden
Monday:08.00 – 16.30
Tuesday:08.00 – 16.30
Wednesday:08.00 – 16.30
Thursday:08.00 – 16.30
Friday:08.00 – 16.30
Saturday:By appointment