Understanding Cavities: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
So you notice a small hole in your teeth, what’s the big deal? It isn’t currently hurting and you don’t feel any different. Well, things can escalate quite quickly when it comes to a cavity, which by the way, means you have tooth decay. It doesn’t sound very pleasant, and those of you who have had a cavity can attest to it not being very enjoyable to live with. To better understand this subject further, let’s take a crash course together on what a cavity is, how they are formed, and how we can prevent it from happening.
What is a cavity?
A hole in your tooth caused by decay. Pretty straightforward right? At face value yes, but let’s take it one step further and understand how these holes in our teeth are created.
Tooth decay happens when there is a buildup of plaque, a sticky substance formed in your mouth. It’s a combination of saliva and leftover food particles that creates a sort of film of bacteria that coats your teeth. Once this bacteria is on your teeth, it starts to feed on the leftover food and sugars in your mouth. The bacteria release acids that slowly start to erode your teeth and over time it creates a hole in your teeth, also known as a cavity.
How can we treat a cavity?
Treating a cavity will depend on its severity. For the early stages of cavities, a fluoride treatment can assist in restoring enamel. The fluoride is applied by a dentist in the form of a gel, varnish or foam.
For cavities that have gone beyond the early stages, you may need fillings, a crown or even a Root Canal. Beyond early stages lead to decay going into the nerve of the tooth which would lead to more severe treatments such as:
- Cavity Fillings: A filling is when a dentist extracts decayed portions of your teeth and fills it with a material so that bacteria is not able to enter the open area. Typical fillings are made from resin, amalgam or gold.
- Dental Crown: A crown, or dental cap, is a custom-fitted covering for a decayed or broken tooth to make it stronger.
- Root Canal: A treatment done to remove inflamed or infected pulp from the inside of the tooth.
How to prevent cavities:
- Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste will help remove food particles and plaque from the surface of your teeth.
- Floss Daily: Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline, areas where a toothbrush can’t reach.
- Healthy Diet: Limit your intake of sugary and starchy foods and beverages. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, alongside drinking plenty of water can also help maintain healthy teeth.
Something as small as a simple filling could be the reason you avoid an extensive and expensive treatment (treatments like root canals and crowns can cost 4x more!). Understanding dental cavities is crucial for maintaining good oral health. Remember that the best way to stay ahead of any dental issues is to visit your dentist regularly and practice good oral hygiene habits!
