WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DENTAL CAVITIES

Your teeth are the hardest substances in your body, and are crucial for breaking down the foods you eat and for helping you speak clearly. The different parts of your teeth include:

• Enamel• Dentin• Pulp

Your teeth can experience many issues, but cavities are the most common, and one of the easiest to prevent.

What Is a Cavity?

Dental cavities, also known as a dental caries happen when your tooth or teeth decay and start to break down. Cavities are holes in the surface of your teeth that can end up growing larger and deeper if not addressed.

This is one reason why regular trips to the dentist are so important.

What Causes Cavities?

Cavities has several possible causes, including:

• Location - molars and premolars are more susceptible.• Sticky food and beverages - like soft drinks, table

sugar, milk, raisins, cookies and cakes that aren't easily washed away by saliva can cause a problem.

• Poor brushing & flossing habits - plaque will form if it isn't removed

• Age - younger children and older adults are more susceptible to cavities.

Causes cont…

• Dry mouth - this condition is from a lack of saliva, and can lead to increased plaque build up because it isn't washed away naturally.

• Older fillings - as fillings get older and weaker, plaque can form around or underneath your old fillings.

• Eating disorders like bulimia or anorexia may result in tooth erosion and cavities.

How to Know If You Have a CavityThe best way to know if you have a cavity is through a check up at your dentist's office. Finding cavities is one of the dentist's jobs, so you can be sure they'll be find if you don't notice any symptoms or they are hidden.

Some signs that you might notice include:

• Tooth pain• Sensitivity to hold or cold• Visible holes or pits in your teeth

Common Cavity Treatments

Cavity treatments may vary depending on the severity of the cavity. For a smaller cavity, that portion is drilled into a removed, replaced with a filling. Many modern fillings are white and virtually unnoticeable.

If the decay is more extensive, crowns that cover the tooth will be used. If the decay damages the nerves or pulp under the tooth, a root canal may have to be performed. A sedation dentist will be required in this situation to reduce discomfort during the procedure. New products and techniques are also being worked on all the time.

Untreated Cavity Complications

Some of the potential complications from untreated cavities include:

• Tooth loss• Tooth abscesses• Infections• Broken teeth• Chewing issues• Pain that disrupts your daily routine

Cavity Prevention

The easiest way to deal with the whole cavity issue is to prevent them in the first place. Here are some tips:

• Regular brushing and flossing (at least twice a day)• Using a fluoride toothpaste• Brush your gums gently each day• Limit your intake of sugary drinks• Drink water with meals when possible• Visit the dental hygienist regularly for cleanings

Referenceshttp://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-cavitiesWebMD

http://kidshealth.org/kid/talk/qa/cavity.html#Kids Health

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cavities/DS00896/DSECTION=risk%2DfactorsMayo Clinic

http://www.cosmeticdentistry.net/

Dr. Carol Waldman