All About Cavities

What are Cavities?

Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are holes that develop in the hard outer layer of teeth, called enamel.

They are caused by a buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth.

When you eat or drink sugary foods or drinks, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack the enamel, causing it to break down and form cavities.

Symptoms of Cavities

Cavities may not cause any symptoms at first, but as they progress, you may experience:

 Toothache

 Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures

 Visible holes or dark spots on the teeth

 Bad breath

 Unpleasant taste in the mouth

Causes of Cavities

The main cause of cavities is plaque buildup. Other factors that can increase your risk of cavities include:

 Diet: A diet high in sugary foods and drinks provides more food for the bacteria in plaque to produce acids.

 Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing your teeth regularly allows plaque to build up and cause cavities.

 Dry mouth: Saliva helps to neutralize acids and protect enamel. Dry mouth, often caused by medications or medical conditions, can increase your risk of cavities.

 Weak enamel: Some people have naturally weaker enamel, which makes them more susceptible to cavities.

 Acidic foods and drinks: Acidic foods and drinks, such as soda and citrus fruits, can erode enamel and increase your risk of cavities.

Prevention of Cavities

There are a number of things you can do to prevent cavities, including:

• Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
• Eat a healthy diet that is low in sugar.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Use a fluoride mouthwash.
• Chew sugar-free gum.
• See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Treatment of Cavities

If you have a cavity, your dentist will treat it based on its severity. Treatment options include:

• Fillings: Fillings are used to repair small to moderate-sized cavities.
• Crowns: Crowns are used to cover large cavities or teeth that have been weakened by decay.
• Root canals: Root canals are used to treat teeth that have been infected with bacteria.
• Tooth extraction: Tooth extraction is sometimes necessary for teeth that are severely decayed or infected.

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Important Note:

If you think you have a cavity, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Early treatment of cavities can prevent them from progressing and causing further damage to your teeth.