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What is a cavity?
Cavities occur when foods containing commonly consumed carbohydrates such as bread, cereal, cake, etc. stay on the inner most (enamel) and outer most (dentin) layers of the teeth. They form after the bacteria in your mouth turn carbohydrates into acids, thus resulting in the decay of enamel. The combination of acid, bacteria, saliva, and food debris all contribute to the buildup of plaque on the teeth which results in the creation of holes throughout the layers of the teeth. This not only can affect the inner layer of the tooth, but the outer layer as well.
Individuals who consume foods containing high levels of sugar or carbohydrates are more likely to get cavities. People of any age can have a cavity depending on their daily routine and diet. However, the older you get the more likely it is for a cavity to eventually develop into something more severe, such as gum disease. Gums are pulled away from teeth at an older age, resulting in the exposure of plaque development on the roots of your teeth.
Symptoms of a Cavity:
The symptoms of cavities vary depending on how long they've existed, where they are located and how severe they are. Cavities may be painless at first with little or no symptoms at all, but over time as the decay starts to spread, signs and symptoms may arise such as:
- Black or brown staining on any surface of a tooth
- Pain with movement of jaw
- Visible holes in the teeth
- Spontaneous toothaches
- Tooth sensitivity
- Sharp pain when eating
- Sharp pain when drinking
Ways to prevent Cavities:
- Brush teeth after every meal
- Use fluoride mouthwash and toothpaste
- Drink a lot of water
- Avoid frequent snacking
- Avoid sugary foods and/or drinks
- Ask about antibacterial treatments
- Ask about fluoride treatments
- Visit dentist regularly
Possible Ways to Treat Cavities:
- Remineralization of tooth
- Use of fluoride mouth wash and toothpaste
- Fillings
- Root canals
- Pulp cleaning
Treatment options for cavities include, but are not limited to:
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Cavities treated at the following offices:
