Oral and Maxillofacial surgery resident and Public Health Practitioner, Dr. Oum-Kalsoum Zaharia Adam has reiterated the importance of early intervention in the treatment of tooth decay, also known as caries.
In a discussion on World Oral Day on the Happy Morning Show with Sefah Danquah, Dr. Adam explained the intricate layers of the tooth structure, comprising the enamel, dentin, and pulp and how the location and depth of the cavity dictates the appropriate treatment approach.
She emphasized that early-stage cavities, typically confined to the enamel or dentin layers, often manifest without noticeable symptoms, leading individuals to overlook or delay seeking treatment.
“When you have the cavity within the first two layers, it’s actually very simple to treat. You can decide to do a simple filling and monitor, and you’ll be fine,” she stated.
However, Dr. Adam cautioned that if left untreated, tooth decay can progress deeper into the pulp layer, where nerves are located, resulting in excruciating pain and discomfort for the individual.
This advanced stage of decay severely limits treatment options and may necessitate more invasive procedures, such as root canal therapy or tooth extraction.
“Either you pull out the tooth or do some extensive filling that we call root canal therapy which will help, followed by putting a cap on it to protect it,” she added.
She emphasized the importance of proactive dental care and regular check-ups to detect and address cavities in their early stages before they escalate into more severe and painful conditions. By seeking timely treatment, individuals can avoid unnecessary pain and complications associated with advanced tooth decay.
