Treat tooth decay in Perth — early intervention saves teeth
Tooth decay is the most widespread chronic disease in Australia — and almost entirely preventable. If untreated, decay spreads to deeper layers, leading to toothache, infection and tooth loss. The earlier we catch it, the simpler the fix.
Decay treatment
Depends on stage
Fluoride treatment for early decay · Fillings for cavities · Root canal for advanced decay
Pricing varies with the treatment needed. The earlier decay is caught, the less invasive (and cheaper) the fix.
What causes tooth decay?
The main cause is acid produced by bacteria reacting with sugar — eroding and weakening the enamel. Untreated, the initial decay creates a full cavity. Excessive plaque feeds the bacteria and produces more acid, accelerating the disease.
Four stages — and what treats each
1. Enamel demineralisation
A matte white spot. Still reversible — the enamel can repair itself with reduced sugar and good hygiene. Fluoride treatment helps.
2. Enamel decay
The tooth starts to look dark. Decay has reached the harder enamel layer. Filling required.
3. Dentin decay
Reached the inner dentine layer below the enamel. Filling or possibly a crown.
4. Pulp involvement
Decay reaches the nerve. Root canal needed — or extraction if the tooth can't be saved.
Symptoms — when to see us
- Toothache or pain that doesn't settle
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet food
- Visible holes or pits in the teeth
- Brown, black or white staining on tooth surfaces
- Pain when biting down
- Facial swelling (in advanced cases)
If any of these apply, call us — the earlier we catch decay, the less work (and cost) involved.
Prevention — your daily routine matters most
Oral hygiene
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily — prevents plaque between teeth where the brush can't reach
- Rinse with a fluoride-containing mouthwash
Lifestyle
- Drink tap water — Perth's public supply contains a small amount of fluoride that strengthens teeth
- Decrease dietary sugar — and especially the frequency (constant sipping is worse than one sugary drink)
- Chew sugar-free gum — stimulates saliva that clears sugar and food particles
- Eat cheese or drink milk — calcium and protein help restore enamel
Professional
- Dental sealants — fill crevices so food and bacteria can't lodge there
- Regular check-ups every 6 months — early diagnosis allows the simplest fix
Treatment options
Fluoride treatment
If decay is diagnosed early enough — fluoride varnish or gel helps the enamel naturally repair itself.
Fillings
If decay has progressed to a cavity. We remove the decayed tissue and fill the hole. More on fillings.
Root canal
For deep decay reaching the pulp — clean and seal the canal, save the tooth. More on root canal.
Extraction
Last resort when the tooth is unsalvageable. We replace with a bridge, implant or denture afterwards.
Two Perth locations, one phone number
Perth CBD clinic
Level 1, 300 Murray Street, Perth WA 6000
Mon–Thu 8:30am–5pm · Fri 8:30am–4:30pm · Closed weekends
DirectionsBelmont clinic
171 Belmont Avenue, Belmont WA 6104
Mon–Thu 8am–6pm · Fri 8am–4pm · Sat 8am–2pm · Free parking
DirectionsTooth decay questions, answered
Can tooth decay be reversed?
Yes, in the earliest stage (enamel demineralisation — the matte white spot). With reduced sugar, better hygiene and fluoride treatment, the enamel can repair itself. After this stage, decay needs a filling.
How can I prevent tooth decay?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, use a fluoride mouthwash. Decrease how often you eat or sip sugary food. See us every 6 months for a check and clean.
Is tooth decay always painful?
No — early decay is usually well-tolerated. Pain comes when the decay reaches the nerve. This is why regular check-ups matter — we can catch decay before it hurts.
What is the most common cause of tooth decay?
Excessive dietary sugar combined with poor oral hygiene. Bacteria turn the sugar into acid that erodes enamel. Frequency matters more than amount — constant sipping is worse than one sugary drink.
Can fluoride really help repair decay?
In the early demineralisation stage, yes. Fluoride helps remineralise the enamel back to health before a cavity forms. Once a cavity is formed, fluoride alone won't fix it.
Are children at higher risk?
Yes — children's enamel is less developed, and sugary snacks are common. Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears, and bring children for check-ups every 6 months.
Worried about tooth decay? Get checked in Perth.
Call us — the earlier we find decay, the less work and cost involved.
$349 first emergency visit · same-day, subject to availability · Both Perth clinics
