Even though the teeth are relatively hard, they are still susceptible to disease and injury.
Cavities are the decay, disintegration, and eventual destruction of a tooth.
The diseased area is removed with a drill and the hole packed with some type of filling, such as the silver-colored amalgam or white composite filling. Teeth that are discolored or damaged can sometimes be fixed with porcelain veneers, a thin shell bonded to the tooth. Generally, three appointments are needed for veneers. In the first stage, the dentist makes the diagnosis and plans the treatment. On the second visit, the teeth must be prepared for the veneer.