Dental cavities are otherwise known as dental caries or tooth decay. This is one of the most common oral health issues encountered by both children and adults. At Wolf Willow Orchid Dental in SE Calgary, we value the prevention and treatment of cavities for optimum oral health. The review will feature detailed and essential information on dental cavities: what they are, causes, symptoms, prevention techniques, treatments, and expert recommendations from our dental professionals.
What Are Dental Cavities?
Dental cavities are permanently damaged areas within the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes. These are created by bacteria in the mouth, frequent snacking on sugary foods, and poor habits of oral hygiene.
Causes of Dental Cavities
Bacteria: Oral bacteria feed on sugars and produce acids that attack the enamel of the teeth.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) to build upon the teeth.
Diet: Sweets and other sugary, sticky foods and drinks increase your chances of getting cavities.
Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva can disrupt the oral environment and increase bacterial formation in the mouth.
Common Symptoms of Dental Cavities
1. Tooth Sensitivity
- Pain: Pain from hot, cold, or sweet foodstuffs and beverages.
- Discomfort: Ache or soreness in the tooth or teeth involved.
2. Visible Signs
- Dark Spots: Brown, black, or white marks on the surface of the teeth.
- Visible Cavities: Small pits or holes in teeth, especially visible between teeth or on chewing surfaces.
3. Bad Breath
Halitosis: Persistent bad breath due to decay and bacterial buildup.
Effects of Non-Treatment of Cavities
1. Tooth Damage
- Enamel Erosion: The slow breakdown of tooth enamel, causing cavities to grow deeper and more sensitive.
- Tooth Cracking: Softening of the tooth structure, making it prone to breaking down or cracking.
2. Gingivitis
Gum inflammation as a result of infections from the bacteria of an open cavity
3. Tooth Falling Out
Abscess: Infection of the root of the tooth that if not treated may lead to tooth loss
Dental Caries Prevention Measures
1. Healthy Oral Hygiene
- Brushing: Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing: Clean between teeth daily to remove plaque and food particles. End.
- Water Intake: Rinse your mouth with water after food intake to neutralize the acids.
3. Regular Dental Visits
- Routine Check-ups: Ensure a dental check-up and cleaning is taken every six months to detect early signs of cavities.
- Professional Cleanings: Remove plaque and tartar buildup that can contribute to cavity formation.
Treatments For Dental Cavity
1. Dental Fillings
- Objective: Rebuild tooth structure by filling the cavity with a strong material (such as composite resin, amalgam).
- Benefits: Prevent further decay, restore function, and protect against tooth sensitivity.
2. Dental Crowns
- Purpose: Cover and strengthen thoroughly decayed or weakened teeth to restore shape and function.
- Benefits: Offer long-term protection and aesthetic improvement for drastically damaged teeth.
3. Root Canal Therapy
- Aim: Removal of the infected pulp tissue inside the tooth, cleaning of a root canal with subsequent closing so that infection does not recur.
- Benefits: Maintenance of the natural structural anatomy of the tooth, and this avoids extraction of the tooth.
At Wolf Willow Orchid Dental in SE Calgary, we take an emphasis on early detection and proactive treatment for cavities. Our dentist near you gives personal care and effective solutions that can aid you in achieving and maintaining a healthy smile. Whether you have the symptoms of cavities or need preventive dental care, our professionals are all for your steps along the way.
Prevent dental cavities by keeping your mouth clean with proper oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits. Understanding the cause, recognizing symptoms, and taking preventive measures will minimize your risk of cavities and enable you to maintain the optimal health of your teeth. Here at Wolf Willow Orchid Dental, we are committed to educating our patients and providing comprehensive dental care that places their well-being first. Call us at 403-604-6845 or mail your queries to [email protected] for a consultation and further information regarding the prevention and treatment of dental cavities.