In the world of general and cosmetic dentistry, cavities are a common patient complaint. Educating yourself on their causes, early symptoms, and prevention tactics—like regular teeth cleanings from your dentist—will enable you to prevent them and seek early treatment before they cause damage. Learn essential information about cavities by reading the guide below.

What Are Cavities?

Cavities are spots of decay where your enamel and sometimes underlying tissues have been damaged. They occur when plaque (a sticky film of bacteria and acidic wastes) eats away at your tooth’s enamel, often due to a lack of thorough and regular teeth cleanings. Consuming high amounts of sugars, starches, and acids can increase your risk of developing cavities. 

In the early stages, the outer layer of enamel will erode, creating a white patch on your tooth as unstained enamel is revealed. Left untreated, the cavity will erode through the enamel and into tissues like dentin and pulp, leading to yellow, brown, and black spots. You may notice a visible hole or dent in your tooth, and it can become misshapen as more of its material is eaten away. Cavities don’t usually cause pain until they’ve reached the deep layers of the tooth, where the root is.

How Are They Treated?

Treatment depends upon how advanced the cavity is. If it’s still in the very early stages, a professional cleaning and fluoride treatment may be enough to stop the decay, paired with a rigorous cleaning routine at home. If the decay has formed a hole, you’ll need a filling, with large tooth fillings often receiving a crown to prevent fractures and restore chewing ability. For decay that’s reached the root, a root canal will likely be done under sedation. If treatment fails, the tooth may need to be removed.

How Can They Be Prevented?

Cavities can be prevented through good oral health habits. Eat a healthy diet low in sugars, carbs, and acids, and avoid frequent snacking, as bacteria release acids each time you eat. Engage in teeth cleaning and flossing twice a day to remove plaque, and speak with your dentist about fluoride treatments or dental sealants for added protection. Regular cleanings and exams from your dental office are also crucial to monitoring your health and detecting cavities early on.

Do you need a teeth cleaning to prevent cavities? The team at Waterford Dental Health in New London County, CT, will provide thorough exams, cleanings, and effective treatments to combat decay. With comprehensive services, multiple awards, and decades of experience, you can trust their dentists to take care of your family. Learn more about their services like sedation dentistry online, and call (860) 447-2235 to schedule your appointment.