Discover what causes cavities so you can be better informed on what to avoid and how to prevent future cavities from forming and causing discomfort and costly restoration.
Before we dive into the details of cavities, let’s talk about what a cavity is. A cavity is a hole that forms in your tooth because of tooth decay. This happens when acids in the mouth destroy and wear down your protective enamel. Anyone can get a cavity. Proper dental hygiene and regularly seeing your dentist for cleaning can prevent cavities. If a cavity is left untreated it can lead to a whole bunch of complications including tooth pain, infection, and even tooth extractions.
As briefly mentioned before, cavities can result from tooth decay, but there are a few common ways cavities form.
Treatment for cavities will all depend on the amount of tooth decay.
This is for when a cavity is caught in the early stages. The point of fluoride treatment is to repair tooth enamel. You may be prescribed toothpaste and mouthwash along with a few fluoride treatments from your dentist.
The most common way a cavity is treated is by getting a filling at your dentist's office. When a hole forms, your dentists will drill out the decayed area and then fill the hole with silver amalgam, composite resin, or gold.
A root canal is for treating pain in the nerves of your tooth. Your dentist or endodontist will remove the inflamed pulp. Since the pulp contains nerve endings, once removed, the pain will go away.
This is the last option, usually done if a root canal isn’t possible. Your dentist will pull your tooth and replace it with a dental implant. The implant is there to look as if your real tooth is still there and to keep other teeth from shifting.
Having good oral hygiene will keep cavities and tooth decay away. Here are the best ways to prevent cavities.
In addition to our handy checklist, here are some helpful links:
Now that you know all the ways a cavity can be caused, it’s up to you to prevent them! Be sure to practice proper dental hygiene daily, and visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. If you experience pain or think you might have a cavity, don't hesitate to make an appointment with your dentist to treat the ailment and prevent it from getting worse.
Cavities, also known as dental caries, typically present with various symptoms. In the early stages, you might not experience any noticeable signs. However, as the cavity progresses, common symptoms can include tooth sensitivity, especially to hot, cold, or sweet substances, localized toothache or discomfort, visible holes or pits in the affected tooth, and potential discoloration or dark spots on the tooth’s surface.
If you suspect one, it’s important to seek dental care promptly to prevent further decay and potential complications. Regular dental check-ups can help catch and address holes early on.
What causes a cavity to form?Cavities form primarily due to the interaction of bacteria, sugars, and acids in the mouth. When you consume sugary or starchy foods, bacteria in dental plaque convert these carbohydrates into acids that can erode the protective enamel layer of your teeth. Over time, if oral hygiene is inadequate and these acids are not adequately neutralized by saliva, they can create small openings or cavities in the enamel.
These cavities provide a conducive environment for further bacterial growth and decay. Regular brushing, flossing, and limiting sugary foods can help prevent cavity formation by minimizing the bacteria’s ability to produce harmful acids.
How can you prevent a cavity to form?To prevent cavity formation:
Regular dental check-ups are essential to catch early signs and address them promptly. Additionally, drinking water, chewing sugar-free gum, and consuming foods high in calcium and phosphates can help promote strong tooth enamel and create an environment less conducive to cavity development.
How are cavities diagnosed?A dentist typically diagnoses cavities during a dental examination. The dentist visually inspects your teeth, looking for signs of decay such as discoloration, pits, or holes. They may also use a dental instrument called an explorer to gently probe the teeth for any soft or sticky areas that could indicate decay. X-rays are commonly used to detect cavities between teeth or in places not easily visible, helping the dentist assess the extent of the decline. Regular dental check-ups play a crucial role in catching cavities early, allowing for timely treatment and prevention of further damage.