You can reverse tooth decay if you catch the tooth decay early enough.
In the early stages tooth decay can be reversed and a dentist can apply some fluoride to restore the minerals to the enamel of the tooth.
Although if the tooth decay has progressed to a cavity then a filling would be required.
If you notice tooth decay you should ensure that you're brushing and flossing regularly and using a fluoride toothpaste.
Seeing a dentist is also important if you notice tooth decay so the tooth decay can be stopped and reversed as soon as possible.
Avoid any sugary foods which feed bacteria that can cause tooth decay.
Dental crowns and other dental restorations can help with tooth decay if the cavity has spread to the dentin.
You should also get regular dental checkups to help identify any cavities before they get worse.
The good news is that tooth enamel can repair itself by using minerals from saliva, and fluoride from toothpaste or other sources.
Although if the tooth decay process continues, more minerals are lost.
And over time, the tooth enamel is weakened and destroyed, forming a cavity.
A dental cavity in the tooth is permanent damage that a dentist has to repair with a filling.