Understanding the Basics of Tooth Decay and Cavities
Tooth decay and cavities are terms that are often misused. This is because tooth decay leads to cavities. Tooth decay is a dental disease that, if not treated, causes the erosion of the tooth’s enamel, leaving your tooth vulnerable to harmful bacteria and other oral diseases. On the other hand, cavities form due to progressive tooth decay leading to the formation of holes in the affected tooth. This piece will help you learn more about tooth decay and cavities. So, keep on reading to find out more.
How Does Tooth Decay Lead To Cavities?
Your teeth are protected by enamel, which hinders the penetration of harmful bacteria into the sensitive parts of the teeth. Failure to maintain proper oral hygiene leads to the building of plaque between teeth. The plaque combines with bacteria in your mouth which is erosive. The acids begin to erode your enamel leaving holes in your tooth.
The dentist in Winter Haven recommends going for regular dental checkups. Regular dental checkups are essential as the dentist will identify the small holes caused by tooth decay. Untreated cavities and tooth decay can cause infections and pain, making it challenging to speak, eat or even go about your routine.
What Are the Symptoms Of Cavities?
Generally speaking, there are no differences between cavities and tooth decay symptoms. This is because one leads to the other. Here are some of them:
- Pain when you chew or bite down food.
- Tooth sensitivity, especially when taking hot or cold drinks and foods.
- Noticeable holes or pits in your teeth.
- Black, white or brown staining on the affected tooth’s surface.
- Sudden toothache with no apparent cause.
What Predisposes Your Teeth To Decay And Cavities?
Poor Oral Hygiene
The dentist near you recommends brushing twice and flossing once daily. Also, proper brushing techniques should be utilized to remove food stuck between your teeth. Failure to clean your teeth well leads to the buildup of plaque and tartar that causes tooth decay and cavities.
Certain Drinks and Foods
Foods such as cakes, cookies, chips and drinks like soda, fruit juice, milk and ice cream linger on your teeth for a long. If you stay without brushing your teeth for long periods, the food debris mixes with the bacteria in your mouth, causing erosion of your teeth’s enamel.
Location Of Teeth
Teeth in the back of your mouth are more susceptible to decay and cavities. Molars and premolars have pits and grooves that can be hard to clean with your toothbrush. Therefore, it would be best to go for deep cleaning at the dental clinic near you. Deep cleaning will effectively remove food particles in the deep grooves and pits, preventing tooth decay.
How Are Cavities Treated?
When you go for treatment, the dentist will examine your teeth and determine the most suitable treatment depending on the severity of decay and cavities. Here are some of the treatments that the dentist can recommend:
- Root canal therapy- untreated tooth decay can spread deep in the tooth’s pulp. The bacteria will create holes and damage the pulp. A root canal will be effective as the infected parts and pulp are removed, and deep cleaning is done.
- Tooth fillings- once tooth decay has caused cavities, the dentist will have to fill the holes. Therefore, you should look for a dentist who installs cavity fillings near you so that the decayed material is removed, cleaning is done, and the filling is applied. Examples of dental fillings include gold, composite resin and amalgam fillings.
- Tooth removal- when the bacteria caused by tooth decay has spread deep in your tooth and damaged most of the tooth, extraction will be the only option left. When your tooth is severely decayed,
- Fluoride treatment- if you go to the dentist early, once you notice the early signs of tooth decay, the dentist will recommend a fluoride treatment. The fluoride treatment is also known as remineralization, where minerals are added to your teeth to strengthen your enamel.
How To Prevent Tooth Decay and Cavities
- Brush and floss your teeth regularly.
- Go for dental checkups at Winter Haven Dental at least twice a year.
- Consult with a dentist near you to know if dental sealants will be effective for your teeth.
- Reduce the consumption of starch, sugary foods and drinks.