Nobody likes hearing the word “cavity” during their visit to the dentist. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 48% of the world’s population has had a cavity in their permanent teeth – that’s 3.6 billion people. Cavities are common, yet most people are unfamiliar with what they are, how they form, and the importance of preventing them. The professionals at Eubanks Family Dental are here to help you understand the ins and outs of cavities and how to avoid them.
What is a Cavity?
- Smooth surface cavities: cavities that form on the smooth sides of teeth
- Root cavities: cavities that form over the roots of the teeth
- Pit and fissure cavities: Cavities that form on the chewing surface of the teeth
Let’s start with the basics. What is a cavity? Also known as tooth decay or caries, cavities are holes or openings in the hard surface of a tooth when acids in the mouth erode the tooth enamel. There are a couple of different types of cavities that can occur:
How Does a Cavity Form?
Many factors can lead to a cavity, all of which involve the destruction of the tooth’s enamel. Bacteria, acid, and other elements mix with saliva to form plaque, a sticky substance that coats teeth. Without proper dental care, such as brushing, flossing, and regular professional dental cleanings, plaque can dissolve the tooth enamel and create cavities or holes.
Symptoms to Be Aware Of
If you have never had a cavity before, you may not know what the symptoms look or feel like. Cavities can have many symptoms, including:
- Pain: You may experience a sharp or painful toothache when biting down. Also, you may feel pain when consuming hot, cold, or sweet items. Pain may also be due to a dental emergency.
- Sensitivity: When eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet, you may feel tenderness or a jolting sensation.
- Visible discoloration or holes: You may notice brown, black, or white stains on your teeth, as well as visible pits or holes.
The Importance of Preventing and Treating Cavities
Although some people may believe it’s fine to ignore cavities, especially if they don’t have any pain or symptoms, it’s crucial to treat and prevent cavities because if left untreated, they can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. A standard treatment for cavities is dental fillings. Dental fillings are commonly used to fill the hole in the tooth after drilling into a cavity. Another excellent preventative treatment for cavities is sealants. Sealants are a plastic resin bonded into the grooves of the chewing surface of your tooth; it’s a clear or tinted plastic protective coating for teeth that helps prevent the formation of cavities.
How to Avoid Cavities
When it comes to avoiding cavities, there are some steps you can take to help.
Limit or avoid the consumption of various food and drinks that can cause cavities
Some foods and drinks that can cause cavities include:
- Soda
- Sports drinks
- Coffee
- Fruit juice
- Alcoholic beverages
- Citrus
- Candy
- Bread
Brush and Floss Daily
To remove plaque and buildup, brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste for 2 minutes or more at least twice a day and floss once daily.
Visit The Dentist
Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can identify and prevent cavities and recommend treatments, such as fluoride and other preventative treatments, to help prevent cavities from occurring.
Schedule An Appointment with Eubanks Family Dental Today!
Cavities are nothing to feel ashamed of. They can happen to anyone! Knowing what a cavity is, how it forms, and how to prevent it can help you maintain good dental health. If you need treatment for your cavities, want to learn more, or need dental advice or assistance, call Eubanks Family Dental to schedule an appointment today. Our team of dental professionals is here to help you maintain good dental health.
