Cavities

Cavities are areas of decay on your tooth’s surface. They form when bacteria and acids in the mouth gradually erode the enamel, which is the protective layer of our teeth. Cavities start as small holes and can grow larger over time if left untreated—but good news! Your Radix Dentistry team can help.

What are cavities?

Cavities are common and happen to most of us in our lifetime. They occur when the hard outer layer of the tooth (enamel) gets damaged and form small holes or openings. Factors like bacteria, sugary and acidic foods and drinks, poor oral hygiene and not using fluoride can all cause cavities.

Plaque is the main culprit of cavities. It’s a sticky film of bacteria that accumulates on your teeth. The bacteria in the plaque feed on sugars from the foods we eat and produce acids that attack the enamel, causing demineralization. Prolonged exposure to the acids weakens the enamel, causing it to break down and form cavities.

What causes cavities?

The most common cause of cavities is poor dental hygiene and a high-sugar, high-starch diet. When food particles and bacteria are not removed, plaque forms on your teeth. Plaque acids gradually dissolve the tooth’s enamel, leading to cavity formation.

Dry mouth, certain medications and a genetic predisposition can also increase your risk of cavities.

Cavity symptoms

By learning cavity symptoms, you can catch them early and quickly get treatment at your local Radix Dentistry before they get bigger.

Does it hurt to eat sweet or acidic foods? A cavity may be the cause. Be on the lookout for other symptoms like these.

  • Sudden, unexplained pain
  • Pain while biting or chewing
  • Sensitivity near the cavity
  • Visible holes in the teeth
  • White, brown, or black spots on the tooth’s surface

Different types of cavities

Pit and fissure cavities

Smooth surface cavities 

Root cavities

Recurrent or secondary cavities 

Erosion cavities 

Baby bottle tooth decay (early childhood caries) 

How to get rid of cavities

It’s important to contact us if you are experiencing symptoms of a cavity. Your local Radix Dentistry dentist can determine the best course of treatment based on the extent of the cavity. Your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and restore your tooth with the right dental materials for you.

Some of the techniques your dentist may use include:

1. Dental fillings

Dental fillings are a common treatment option for cavities. Your Radix Dentistry dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill it with a durable, natural-looking material, such as composite resin. Once your tooth is filled, its shape, function and strength will be restored.

2. Dental crowns

If the cavity has significantly damaged your tooth, you may need a dental crown. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible portion of the tooth. It protects, restores strength and improves your tooth’s appearance.

3. Root canal therapy

When tooth decay reaches the innermost layer, known as the dental pulp, it can cause severe pain and infection. You’ll require root canal therapy to remove the infected pulp, clean the root canal and seal it. The procedure will relieve any pain you may be experiencing, and your Radix Dentistry dentist will discuss the best options to restore and protect your tooth from further damage.

How to get prevent cavities

A thorough oral care routine is the best way to prevent cavities.

Oral hygiene

Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste, floss daily to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash. 

Balanced diet

Limit sugary and acidic food and drinks, as they can encourage cavity-causing bacteria. 

Fluoride treatment

Ask your Radix Dentistry dentist about professional fluoride treatments to strengthen your tooth enamel. 

Regular dental checkups

Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to catch cavities early and prevent their progression.

Cavity frequently asked questions?

Do cavities hurt?

Can I get a cavity between my teeth?

Can I prevent cavities if I have braces?

Are cavities contagious?

Can my tooth paste and mouthwash help prevent cavities?

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