Odontotherapy

Care and restoration of affected teeth

Monday - Friday 8PM - 22PM

Clinic locations

Peciu Nou | Moldova Nouă
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What is odontotherapy?

Odontotherapy is an essential branch of dentistry, focused on the treatment, restoration and preservation of teeth affected by dental caries, fractures or other lesions of the enamel and dentin. It focuses on treatments aimed at restoring the functionality, integrity and aesthetics of affected teeth, while preventing complications that may arise from their damage. In simple translation, odontotherapy is associated with tooth therapy, with the aim of healing and repairing hard dental tissues (enamel and dentin) affected by pathological processes.

Dentotherapy is most often known through treatment of dental caries, one of the most common oral health problems globally. Cavities are the result of acid attack by bacteria in dental plaque, which gradually break down the enamel and dentin of the tooth, leaving cavities. Left untreated, cavities can advance to the dental pulp, causing pain, infection and, ultimately, tooth loss.

What does odontotherapy do?

Dentotherapy has the role of preventing, diagnosing and treating dental conditions, especially cavities and other types of lesions that affect the structure of the tooth. The goal of dentistry is:

  • 1. Restoring the functionality of the tooth: Whether it is a cavity caused by decay or a tooth fracture, dentistry rebuilds the structure of the tooth, restoring its ability to chew properly and comfortably.
  • 2. Dental aesthetics: Dentistry also focuses on maintaining or improving dental aesthetics. Modern restorative materials, such as composites and ceramics, are used to match the natural color and shape of the tooth, providing a natural and harmonious appearance.
  • 3. Preventing complications: Timely treatment of cavities and other dental lesions helps prevent major complications, such as pulp infections, which require more complex treatments such as root canal treatments (endodontics) or tooth extractions.
  • 4. Strengthening the tooth structure: Some methods of dental therapy include the use of dental sealants or fluoridation, which help strengthen the enamel and prevent the development of cavities in vulnerable areas of the teeth, especially in children and adolescents.

Modern dentistry is not limited to fillings to treat cavities, but also includes preventive, aesthetic and functional solutions, all adapted to meet the individual needs of patients.

Causes of dental problems treated by dentistry

Dental caries and other dental lesions are based on a number of factors, which can vary from dietary habits to genetic predispositions. Here are the main causes of the problems treated in dentistry:

  1. 1. Bacterial plaque: The most common cause of dental caries is the accumulation of bacterial plaque, a thin layer of bacteria and food debris that constantly forms on the surface of the teeth. Bacteria in dental plaque convert carbohydrates and sugars in food into acids that attack tooth enamel, leading to its demineralization and the formation of cavities.
  2. 2. Diet high in sugars and carbohydrates: Sweet foods and foods high in refined carbohydrates are the main culprits for the development of cavities. Frequent consumption of these foods provides the bacteria in the oral cavity with the necessary substrate to produce acid that attacks tooth enamel.
  3. 3. Poor oral hygiene: Failure to follow an adequate oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing, allows plaque to accumulate. This favors the development of cavities, tartar, and gum disease, all of which can lead to dental lesions that require dental treatment.
  4. 4. Lack of fluoride: Fluoride is an essential mineral for remineralizing enamel and preventing cavities. People who do not get enough fluoride from natural sources (such as fluoridated water) or from dental products (toothpastes, mouthwashes) are more prone to cavities.
  5. 5. Dry mouth (xerostomia): Saliva plays an important role in protecting teeth by neutralizing acids and removing food debris. People who suffer from xerostomia (dry mouth), caused by certain medications or medical conditions, are at increased risk of cavities.
  6. 6. Genetic factors: Genetic predisposition can influence the strength of tooth enamel, the shape of teeth, or even the amount of saliva produced, all of which affect an individual's risk of cavities and other dental problems.
  7. 7. Dental trauma: Traumatic injuries (such as falling or hitting a tooth directly) can cause dental fractures or cracks. These problems require dental treatment to prevent further complications.

Symptoms that indicate the need for dental intervention

There are a number of symptoms that may indicate the presence of dental problems that require dental treatment:

  • 1. Toothache: Acute pain or persistent sensitivity to cold, hot temperatures or sweets is one of the most common signs of dental caries. This occurs when tooth enamel is demineralized and the underlying dentin is exposed, allowing external stimuli to reach the nerve endings in the dental pulp.
  • 2. Tooth Sensitivity: In addition to the pain caused by cavities, increased sensitivity to food or drinks can be a sign of enamel erosion, gum recession, or the presence of dental microcracks.
  • 3. Visible lesions on the teeth: Cavities or dark spots visible on the surface of the teeth are an obvious sign of tooth decay. Also, visible fractures or cracks on the teeth indicate the need for dental intervention to restore the structure of the tooth.
  • 4. Swelling and tenderness of the gums: In advanced cases, tooth decay can also affect the gum tissues, causing inflammation and swelling. These symptoms may indicate the presence of an infection that requires immediate treatment.
  • 5. Difficulty chewing: If you experience discomfort or pain while chewing, this may be caused by extensive decay or a tooth fracture. In such cases, odontotherapy is necessary to restore the normal function of the tooth.

Diagnosis in odontotherapy

Diagnosis in odontotherapy involves a combination of clinical examinations and radiological investigations to identify the dental problem and assess its severity. The diagnostic process includes the following steps:

  • 1. Clinical examination: The dentist will visually examine each tooth and assess the condition of the gums to detect any lesions or cavities. During this examination, a dental probe is used to check the texture and strength of the enamel, thus identifying areas affected by decay.
  • 2. Dental X-rays: X-rays are essential to assess the depth of cavities and to detect lesions hidden between teeth or under the gum line.Bite-wing radiographs are used to view the crowns of the teeth and the interdental areas, while periapical radiographs are useful for evaluating the tooth root and surrounding bone structures.
  • 3. Sensitivity tests: To determine if the dental pulp is affected, the dentist may use thermal or electrical sensitivity tests. These tests help assess the condition of the dental pulp and decide whether root canal treatment (endodontics) is necessary or whether the pulp is intact and healthy.
  • 4. Dental transillumination: Sometimes, an intense light source that is placed on the tooth may be used to detect small cracks or cavities. This process allows the identification of areas of weakness or demineralization of the enamel that are not normally visible.

Once the diagnosis is established, the dentist will assess the degree of damage to the tooth structure and recommend the appropriate dental treatment, whether it is a filling, a dental crown or other restoration procedures.

Treatment methods used in Odontotherapy

Odontotherapy includes a wide range of treatment methods, adapted depending on the severity of the dental lesions and the individual needs of each patient. The main goal of these treatments is to restore the functionality and aesthetics of the affected teeth, while preventing the progression of lesions and the occurrence of complications.

Dental fillings (fillings)

Dental fillings, popularly known as `fillings`, represent the most common odontotherapy treatment. They are used to fill cavities created by cavities, thus restoring the shape and function of the tooth.

  • ● Dental composites: Composite materials are currently the most used for fillings, due to their ability to adapt to the natural color of the tooth. They offer both durability and aesthetics, making them a popular choice for visible fillings on front teeth.
  • ● Dental Amalgam: Although increasingly used for aesthetic reasons, dental amalgam is a very durable and resistant material. It is generally recommended for posterior teeth that are not visible when smiling and are subjected to high forces during chewing.
  • ● Ceramic Fillings: These fillings are made in a laboratory and are extremely wear-resistant. They are used especially for teeth in the lateral area, where chewing forces are higher, or for patients who want a superior aesthetic appearance.

Dental crown treatment

In cases where the tooth is affected to a greater extent and cannot be restored by fillings alone, dental crowns are an ideal solution. Crowns cover the entire tooth, providing protection and restoring its shape and functionality.

  • ● Metal crowns: They are very durable and are used especially for back teeth, which withstand high chewing forces. The disadvantage is that they are not aesthetic, due to the visible metallic color.
  • ● Ceramic crowns: Ceramic crowns are preferred for front teeth, as they perfectly match the color and natural shape of the teeth. They are resistant to staining and offer excellent aesthetics, being almost indistinguishable from natural teeth.
  • ● Metal-ceramic crowns: These crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of ceramic. They are often used for posterior teeth, where both durability and a natural appearance are desired.

Dental onlays and inlays

Dental onlays and inlays are partial restoration solutions used in cases where dental lesions are too large to be treated with simple fillings but do not require a full crown.

  • ● Inlay: An inlay is placed inside the occlusal surface of the tooth, restoring the chewing area that has been affected by decay. They are made of materials such as ceramic or composite and are extremely durable.
  • ● Onlay: Similar to an inlay, an onlay covers a larger portion of the tooth, including one or more cusps. Onlays are preferred over crowns when healthy tooth structure can be preserved.

Treatment of Tooth Fractures

Tooth fractures are treated depending on their severity. In cases where only a small portion of the tooth is affected, it can be restored with a filling or onlay. In more severe cases, where thetooth structure is significantly affected, dental crowns provide the necessary protection.

  • ● Restoration with composite materials: Small fractures, such as chips, can be repaired quickly and effectively with composite materials that match the natural shade of the tooth, restoring both function and aesthetics.
  • ● Treatment of complex fractures: Fractures involving the root or pulp of the tooth require more complex treatments, such as root canal treatments (endodontics) and the application of a crown to protect the tooth from further damage.

Dental sealing

Dental sealing is a preventive method used to protect teeth against cavities, especially in children and adolescents. This procedure involves applying a thin layer of material to the surface of molars and premolars, where cavities tend to form most often.

  • ● Sealing pits and fissures: These areas are often prone to plaque buildup and cavities because they are difficult to clean with a toothbrush. Dental sealants form a protective barrier that prevents bacteria and food debris from accumulating in these areas.
  • ● Sealing in adults: Although it is a more common procedure in children, dental sealing can also be applied to adults, especially those who have healthy teeth but are at high risk of cavities.

Odontotherapy is a vital branch of modern dentistry, focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions that affect the teeth. Whether it is cavities, fractures or other dental injuries, odontotherapy has as its main goal the restoration of dental functionality and aesthetics, thus maintaining long-term oral health.

By combining preventive measures with advanced restorative treatments, odontotherapy ensures that patients benefit from healthy, functional and aesthetic teeth, preventing future complications and giving them a beautiful and healthy smile.

', 'odonto-faq-title' => 'Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Odontotherapy', 'odonto-faq-description' => 'To meet your needs, we have included a section with the questions that we frequently receive. If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to contact us directly!

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  • What is odontotherapy and why is it important for dental health?

    Odontotherapy is the treatment and restoration of teeth affected by cavities, fractures or other injuries. It is essential for maintaining the functionality and aesthetics of teeth, preventing serious complications, such as dental infections and tooth loss.

  • How do I recognize the signs that indicate the need for odontotherapy treatment?

    Signs that indicate the need for treatment include toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, dark spots on the teeth, visible cavities or difficulty chewing. These symptoms may indicate the presence of cavities or other dental problems.

  • What are the most common causes of tooth decay?

    Caries are caused by the accumulation of bacterial plaque, a diet high in sugars, poor oral hygiene and a lack of fluoride. Bacterial plaque breaks down tooth enamel, forming cavities that require dental treatment.

  • What materials are used for dental fillings in dentistry?

    The most commonly used materials for fillings are dental composites (for superior aesthetics), dental amalgam (for durability) and ceramics (for strength and aesthetics). The choice of material depends on the location and size of the cavity.

  • What is the difference between a filling and a dental crown?

    A filling is used to fill small to medium cavities caused by decay, while a dental crown is used to completely cover a severely damaged or weakened tooth, providing long-term protection and functionality.

  • How often should I see a dentist to prevent dental problems?

    Regular visits to the dentist, at least twice a year, are essential for preventing cavities and other dental conditions. These checks allow for early detection of problems and the application of necessary treatments before they worsen.

  • What happens if I don't treat a tooth cavity in time?

    Untreated, a cavity can advance and affect the deeper structures of the tooth, such as the dental pulp, causing infections or the need for root canal treatment. In severe cases, it can lead to tooth loss and the need for a dental implant or a prostheses.