Cavities are one of the most common health problems in the world. They are an issue for anyone with teeth, including infants. Use the guide below to get a better understanding of this dental problem and how to prevent it. 

What Are Cavities?

Development

Also known as tooth decay, cavities are permanently damaged areas on the enamel—the hard, outer surface of teeth. They initially develop as tiny holes but will grow larger and impact deeper layers of the tooth the longer they are left untreated. 

These holes don’t just appear overnight. They are caused by a combination of harmful bacteria in the mouth, frequent consumption of drinks and foods that create this bacteria, and improper dental hygiene habits.

Symptoms of Cavities

Depending on the location and severity of a cavity, the symptoms could vary. Typically, the very small holes are only detectable by a dentist. However, as they get larger, you can expect to experience any of the following:

• Tooth pain when biting down that could also radiate to other teeth.
• Visible holes or pits in one or more teeth.
• Tooth sensitivity, which could cause a pain when drinking or eating sweet, hot, or cold items. 
• A spontaneous toothache that does not appear to have a cause.

How to Prevent Cavities?

The best way to increase your odds of preventing a cavity is to practice good brushing and flossing habits and see a dentist at least twice a year for a professional teeth cleaning. You should also try to limit sweets and make an effort to rinse your mouth out with water after eating whenever brushing is not an option. 

If a cavity is detected or you start to experience any of the symptoms listed above, act quickly. Putting off treatment will cause the tooth decay to spread to the more sensitive inner layers of the tooth. This could lead to an infection and complete loss of one or more teeth.

If you need cavity treatment or want to ensure your teeth stay in good health, contact the premier dental office of Athens Family Dental. For over 25 years, they’ve provided optimal oral health care to those in Athens, GA. In additional to general dentistry, they also specialize in orthodontics and oral surgery, so you can have all of your dental needs met under one roof. Call them today at (706) 548-3279 to schedule an appointment and visit their website to learn more about their services.