Cavities 101: What are Cavities & How to Treat Them?

23 Jul 2021

“Be true to your teeth and they won’t be false to you!”

It is normal to have a cavity or two but what is not normal is not doing anything about it or not taking enough measures to prevent them in the first place. This blog will talk about cavities and how you can avoid them. Devshree Dental Clinic is among the top dentist treatment and services providers in sector 3 Rewari. You can book an appointment today to get your general or specialized dental check-up.

What is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay or cavity is a damage to your teeth which gradually results in various other problems. A tooth has three layers, the first out layer is called enamel and it is the hardest part of a tooth. The middle layer is called dentin and the third layer or center is called the pulp.

Tooth decay is something that doesn’t affect just the kids but even adults can struggle with this problem. However, tooth decay is not an inevitable event and it can be prevented. Smart food choices and a diligent oral care routine will keep the cavities at bay.

What Can Cause Tooth Decay?

Our teeth generally get a layer/sticky film of bacteria. This layer is called plaque. These bacteria are very quick at turning sugar from the food and drinks into acids. This acid is not good for the enamel of teeth and it can ruin this layer of teeth. A damage or decay in enamel is the cavity. Cavity works as an opening for the damage and it can continue to spread into the internal layers of teeth/tooth.

An untreated tooth decay or cavity will result in a pain in the tooth and once the infection/damage spreads to the other parts of the mouth you will experience various other problems related to damaged teeth. An infected tooth makes it difficult to consume food or concentrate on your daily chores.

What Are Some Of The Signs Of Tooth Decay?

• Bad breath that doesn’t go away even after brushing and mouth-wash.
• You will notice spots on your teeth.
• Loose fillings
• Teeth sensitivity to cold and heat
• Pain in the tooth.

Is Tooth Decay A Communicable Disease?

No, it is not possible to pass tooth decay to another person. However, a person with tooth decay can pass on the bacteria when engaging in activities such as kissing, sharing the same spoon or cup, etc., or even sharing a toothbrush. It is not recommended to share your toothbrush with anyone to maintain your hygiene and sanitation.

What Are The Common Places One Can Get Tooth Decay?

Some of the most common places where tooth decay occurs include the grooves of the back of teeth and in the tight spaces between any two teeth. The groove area is difficult to clean even using the toothbrush. The root of a tooth is another place where one can get a cavity.

What Increases The Risk Of Getting Cavities?

As discussed above, anybody can have tooth decay and that’s why it is important to be aware of the problem and what can trigger this issue. We have jotted down some points that highlight what all can increase the risk of cavities:

• Consuming a lot of sugary food and drinking items.
• A dry mouth is more susceptible to cavity problems.
• Childhood illness or family health history of weak enamel can risk tooth decay problems.
• Bad oral hygiene

How Can I Treat Tooth Decay?

The treatment your dentist will recommend depends on the severity of the problem, location, and size of the cavity.

• Fluoride treatment is one of the options when decay is still in the early stage.
• If the decay has reached a cavity stage then you will be recommended cavity filling.
• In case the cavity is of considerable size that filling won’t work then a crown is recommended.
• In severe cases when the pulp is infected, the dentist will recommend getting root canal treatment.
• A badly damaged tooth is removed and replaced.

What Are The Ways To Lower The Risk Of Tooth Decay And Cavities?

• Use fluoride toothpaste to brush twice a day. Make sure to brush for two minutes every time you brush.
• Flossing is best to get rid of food and food debris that gets stuck between teeth.
• Monitor how often you snack on items that can cause tooth decay and try to cut down on those snacking habits.
• Don’t miss regular dental visits and consultations to keep a watch on your dental health.
• Use safe and effective oral care products for your teeth.

Conclusion:

This was our short blog on cavities and tooth decay, how you can detect them and what are the treatment options available? For more information and professional dental service, you can reach out to Devshree Dental Clinic for the best dentist service in Rewari. You can go through our service section to know more about our services. Book Your Appointment Today! Stay tuned to our blog section for more information on dental health and treatments.