There are numerous options for treating tooth decay, but the problem lies in deciding which treatment options are right for the individual. There are no miraculous tooth decay cures that will simply make your mouth whole again. However, your dentist can help you find an option that fits within your budget and lifestyle needs.
Dental Sealants
The first method for treating tooth decay is dental sealants, which is more preventative than anything else. According to the ADA, dental sealants are made of a plastic resin that dentists apply to the molar and premolar teeth for the purpose of sealing out plaque and bacteria.
The cost of dental sealants will depend on where you live and which dentist you use. This is one of the least expensive tooth decay cures, however, and takes the least amount of time. It’s a great way to ensure that you don’t have cavities for the foreseeable future. In most cases, sealants will cost around $30 per tooth.
Endodontic Therapy
More commonly known as a “root canal”, endodontic therapy is a method for treating tooth decay that becomes necessary when the dental pulp (the inside of the tooth) becomes infected, often resulting in an abscess. The root canal procedure is used to remove infected tissue from the tooth, including puss, and is one of the most effective tooth decay cures.
Root canals are far more expensive than dental sealants, though the price depends on which tooth has become infected. For a front incisor, the cost might range from $350 to more than $600 per tooth, while a molar can cost as much as $1,000 or more.
With less severe cases of tooth decay, a common treatment is fillings, which are used to fill the void left by decay when a cavity occurs. Fillings are less painful to endure and take less time, but are only effective if the cavity has not resulted in abscess or infection. To help with the pain, your dentist will probably administer a local anesthetic.
The cost of fillings will depend largely on the location of the tooth and the material used for the procedure. Prices range from $100 to well over $350, so make sure you shop around if you are not covered by insurance. This type of tooth decay cure will not last forever, though some materials provide more longevity than others.
Brushing, Flossing & Fluoride
In some cases, treating tooth decay does not require an extensive procedure. If the decay is not extensive and if you haven’t suffered a cavity or infection, the best tooth decay cures are brushing, flossing and fluoride. These simple rituals will keep your teeth healthy for years to come as long as you develop consistent habits.
If you have any questions about treating tooth decay, or if you are concerned about any options for tooth decay cures, you should make an appointment with your dentist. He or she can recommend the best course of action and give you information specific to your situation.
