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Dental Professionals - What Is A Cavity?

CAVITIES / TOOTH DECAY

Cavities are decayed areas of your teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes. Cavities, also called tooth decay, are caused by a combination of factors, including not brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, frequent snacking, sipping sugary drinks and overall poor dental care.

Cavities and tooth decay are one of the most common health problems around the world. They're especially common in children, but anyone who has teeth can get cavities, including infants and older adults.

If cavities aren't treated, they get larger and the decay can cause a severe toothache, infection, tooth loss and other complications. Regular dental visits and good brushing and flossing habits go a long way toward preventing cavities and tooth decay.

What Are The Causes Of Cavities & Tooth Decay?

Cavities are caused by tooth decay, which is a process that occurs over time.

• Plaque forms. Your mouth, like many other parts of your body, naturally contains many types of bacteria. Some of these bacteria thrive on food and drinks that contain sugars and cooked starches, also known as fermenting carbohydrates. When these carbohydrates aren't cleaned off your teeth, the bacteria can convert them into acids. The bacteria, acids, food particles and saliva then form into dental plaque — a sticky film that coats your teeth. If you run your tongue along your teeth, you can feel this plaque several hours after you've brushed. The plaque is slightly rough and is more noticeable on your back teeth, especially along the gumline.
• Plaque attacks. The acids in plaque attack minerals in the tooth's hard, outer surface, called the enamel. This erosion causes tiny openings or holes in the enamel — cavities. Once spots of enamel are worn away, the bacteria and acid can reach the next layer of your teeth, called dentin. This layer is softer and less resistant to acid than is enamel.
• Destruction continues. As tooth decay continues, the bacteria and acid continue their march through the layers of your teeth, moving next to the pulp, or the inner material of the tooth. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels. The pulp becomes swollen and irritated from the bacteria. The bone supporting the tooth also may become involved. When a cavity and decay is this advanced, you may have severe toothache pain, sensitivity, pain when biting or other symptoms. Your body also may respond to these bacterial invaders by sending white blood cells to fight the infection. This could ultimately result in a tooth abscess, which is a serious infection inside the tooth.

Symptoms of Cavities & Tooth Decay

The signs and symptoms of cavities and tooth decay vary depending on the extent and location of the cavity. When a cavity is just beginning, you may not have any symptoms at all.

But as the decay gets larger, it may cause such signs and symptoms as:

• Toothache
• Tooth sensitivity
• Mild to sharp pain when eating or drinking something sweet, hot or cold
• Visible holes or pits in your teeth
• Pain when you bite down

When to call for an appointment with Dental Professionals

You may not be aware that a cavity is starting, so visiting your dentist regularly is your best protection against cavities and tooth decay. However, a toothache or tooth pain is commonly a telltale sign of a cavity. If your teeth or mouth hurts, visit us as soon as possible.

In addition to pain, contact us if you develop any of these signs or symptoms:

• Red, tender or swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Gums that are pulling away from your teeth, which may make your teeth seem longer
• A bad taste in your mouth
• Unexplained bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Changes in the way your top and bottom teeth touch
• Sensitivity to sweet, hot or cold foods or beverages
• Pain that causes you to avoid brushing or cleaning certain teeth or areas
• Pain when you bite down or chew food or gum

If a cavity is treated before it starts causing pain, you probably won't need extensive treatment. That's why it's important to have regular dental checkups and cleanings even when your mouth feels fine and practicing good dental care habits. By the time you notice symptoms, the damage to your teeth is getting worse.