What are cavities?
A cavity is a damaged area on the surface of your tooth that forms due to decay. It develops into a hole, which gets bigger and deeper if you don’t receive treatment. Eventually, it reaches your tooth’s pulp chamber where the nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels are located. Once there’s an infection in this area, you’ll need a root canal.
How does a cavity form?
A cavity forms when you consistently lack good oral hygiene habits. As a result, plaque begins to build up. The acids in the plaque then eat away at your enamel, causing your teeth to decay and tiny holes to form.
What are the symptoms of a cavity?
The most common warning signs of a cavity include:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Holes in your teeth
- Toothaches
- Pus around your tooth
- Pain when you chew
- Brown or black staining on your teeth
Because cavities don’t always exhibit noticeable symptoms, it’s crucial you visit your dentist a minimum of two times a year for a dental exam. The earlier you catch a cavity, the less damage it causes and the easier it is to repair.
How do dentists repair cavities?
If your dentist suspects you have a cavity, and it’s not visible, the team will take X-rays of your tooth to look for decay.
After your dentist determines you have a cavity, they provide you with a sedative, which can range from a local anesthetic, nitrous oxide gas, or the pill, Halcion™. Afterward, your dentist uses a drill to remove the decayed material from your tooth.
The last step is to replace the decayed portion of your tooth with a tooth-colored filling.
How can I prevent cavities?
While cavities are extremely common, it’s important to remember that they're also preventable if you practice good oral hygiene. The dental team at Horizon Dental recommends you:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Floss to remove food stuck between your teeth
- Limit your intake of sugar
- Visit your dentist twice a year for dental exams
If it’s been a while since your last dental checkup or you’re experiencing cavity symptoms, call Horizon Dental or book your appointment online today.
