Tooth Decay Treatment in Los Angeles, CA
Tooth decay doesn’t start as a hole. It begins quietly beneath the enamel. At Trident Dentistry, we detect decay early and treat it as conservatively as possible, including drill-free, needle-free options that can stop early cavities before they ever need a filling.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is the gradual breakdown of tooth enamel caused by acids produced by bacteria in plaque. Every time you eat or drink sugars and starches, these bacteria release acids that pull minerals out of your enamel. Saliva and fluoride can help replace those minerals, but when acid attacks outpace repair, a weak spot forms beneath the surface. Without treatment, that weak spot becomes a cavity, a permanent hole in the tooth.
How Decay Progresses
- Early enamel lesion: Decay begins beneath the surface and may appear as a chalky white spot. At this stage it can often be reversed.
- Enamel cavity: The surface breaks down, forming a small hole that requires a filling.
- Dentin decay: Decay reaches the softer layer under the enamel and spreads faster, often causing sensitivity.
- Pulp involvement: Bacteria reach the nerve, leading to pain, infection, and the need for a root canal or extraction.
Signs You May Have a Cavity
- Sensitivity to sweets, hot, or cold
- Toothache or pain when biting
- Visible pits, holes, or dark spots on teeth
- White, brown, or black staining on a tooth surface
- Food frequently getting caught in the same spot
Many early cavities cause no symptoms at all, which is why regular dental exams are so important.
How We Detect Decay
Our team uses digital X-rays with up to 90% less radiation than traditional film, intraoral cameras, and magnification loupes to find decay between teeth and beneath the surface long before it’s visible to the eye.
Treatment Options for Tooth Decay
- Curodont™ Repair to regenerate enamel in early lesions
- Tooth-colored fillings and laser-assisted treatment with Waterlase for small cavities
- CEREC inlays, onlays, and crowns made in a single visit for larger areas of decay
- Root canal therapy when decay reaches the nerve
- Dental implants if a tooth can’t be saved
Preventing Cavities
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss every day, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and keep up with professional cleanings. Patients with gum disease, crowded teeth, or dry mouth may need more frequent visits. Explore all dental conditions we treat.
Reversing Early Decay With Curodont™
When we catch decay at the earliest stage, Curodont™ Repair Fluoride Plus can help your tooth rebuild its own enamel. The liquid is applied in under three minutes, diffuses into the lesion, and uses minerals from your saliva to regenerate enamel, with no drilling, needles, or discomfort. It’s safe for children and adults on both baby and permanent teeth.
Tooth Decay FAQs
Can a cavity heal on its own?
A true cavity cannot heal, but very early enamel lesions can be remineralized. Curodont™ Repair Fluoride Plus helps regenerate enamel before a cavity forms.
What does early tooth decay look like?
Early decay often appears as a chalky white spot on the enamel. It may later turn brown or develop into a small pit.
Is Curodont™ safe for children?
Yes. Curodont™ is safe for children and adults and is effective on both primary and permanent teeth.
Do cavities always hurt?
No. Many cavities cause no pain until they are large or reach the nerve, which is why regular exams and X-rays are important.
What type of fillings do you use?
We use natural-looking, tooth-colored materials. For larger areas, we may recommend a CEREC ceramic inlay, onlay, or crown.
How can I prevent cavities?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit sugary foods and drinks, and visit us for cleanings every six months.
What happens if I ignore a cavity?
Untreated decay can spread to the nerve, causing infection and pain and requiring more extensive treatment such as a root canal, crown, or extraction.
Stop Decay Before It Spreads
The earlier decay is treated, the simpler the solution. Call Trident Dentistry at (310) 444-1445 or request an appointment online for an exam.