Cavities are one of the most common dental problems for both children and adults. What exactly causes them, how can you prevent them, and what treatment options are available? Understanding these aspects of dental care can help you keep your smile healthy and strong for years to come. At The Foleck Center, we believe in educating our patients on the importance of cavity prevention and offering the best treatment options when needed.
What Are Cavities?
A cavity, also known as dental decay, is a hole in your tooth caused by the breakdown of its structure. This process starts when plaque — a sticky film of bacteria — forms on that tooth. Over time, the acids produced by these bacteria can weaken the tooth’s enamel, its outer protective layer. When this happens and the enamel begins to erode, the underlying dentin is exposed, ultimately leading to the formation of a cavity.
Cavities typically start small but can grow larger if left untreated, resulting in discomfort and pain, infection, and sometimes tooth loss. Fortunately, understanding the causes and taking preventive measures can help you avoid cavities and maintain optimal oral health.
What Causes Cavities?
Cavities are caused by a combination of factors, although they’re primarily formed by the bacteria that live in your mouth and feed on sugars. Here are the key factors that contribute to cavity formation:
1. Bacteria and Plaque
Your mouth is home to bacteria, and some of them can form plaque when they feed on food particles, especially sugars and starches. As we mentioned earlier, the bacteria in plaque can produce acids that will begin to eat away at your tooth enamel.
2. Poor Oral Hygiene
If you don’t brush your teeth regularly or properly, plaque can build up and begin the cavity-forming process. Skipping brushing and/or flossing can leave food particles and bacteria trapped between your teeth, leading to plaque buildup that is harder to remove.
3. Diet
Eating foods high in sugars and starches — think candies, soda, and even bread — gives plaque bacteria more fuel to produce acid. The longer these acids remain in contact with your teeth, the more likely you are to develop cavities.
4. Dry Mouth
Saliva helps to wash away food particles and bacteria. If you suffer from dry mouth due to medications or health conditions, your mouth may not be able to remove plaque and bacteria as effectively.
5. Tooth Location and Shape
Some teeth are more susceptible to cavities because of how they’re shaped. Those with deep grooves (like molars) can trap food particles and plaque more easily. Similarly, crowded teeth or teeth with fillings may be harder to clean.
6. Age
Children are especially vulnerable to cavities due to their developing oral hygiene habits, but adults aren’t immune either. As we age, our gums may recede, exposing more of each tooth to plaque and bacteria, eroded enamel, and decay.
How to Prevent Cavities
The good news is that cavities are largely preventable with proper care and consistent dental habits. The best ways to protect your teeth and avoid cavities include:
1. Brushing and Flossing Regularly
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and don’t forget to floss daily to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth.
2. Using Fluoride Products
Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. In addition to fluoride toothpaste, you can use fluoride mouth rinses or ask Dr. Foleck about fluoride treatments for added protection.
3. Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks
Limiting your consumption of sugary snacks and drinks can significantly reduce your risk of cavities. Try to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. If you do consume sugary foods, brush your teeth afterward.
4. Drink Water
Drinking water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria from your teeth. It’s especially important after eating sugary or acidic foods. Drinking water also helps prevent dry mouth.
5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups are essential for cavity prevention. At The Foleck Center, we recommend visiting your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and exams. This allows your dentist to catch cavities early, before they become more serious.
6. Consider Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth to protect them from plaque and food particles. They are especially beneficial for children, but adults can benefit from them, too.
Treatment Options for Cavities
If you do develop a cavity, don’t worry — there are several treatment options available to restore your tooth’s function and appearance. The sooner you visit The Foleck Center, the easier and less invasive the treatment will be.
1. Fillings
Fillings are the most common treatment for cavities. Your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the cavity with materials like amalgam, composite resin, or porcelain. This restores the tooth’s shape and function.
Note: Composite fillings match the natural color of your teeth, making them ideal for cavities in visible areas.
2. Crowns
If a cavity is too large for a simple filling, a crown may be necessary. Crowns cover the entire tooth, providing strength and protection. Crowns are made from durable materials like porcelain, which also gives them a natural, tooth-like appearance.
3. Root Canals
If a cavity reaches the tooth’s pulp (the innermost part of the tooth), it may cause infection. In such cases, a root canal is needed to remove the infected tissue and restore the tooth with a crown.
4. Tooth Extraction
If a cavity is too severe and the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary. Fortunately, with today’s advances in dental implants and bridges, missing teeth can be replaced to restore your smile.
Why Cavities Shouldn’t Be Ignored
While cavities may start out small, they can become bigger problems when left untreated — either for individual teeth, or those that surround them. That’s why it’s so important to practice good oral hygiene, schedule regular dental visits, and seek treatment as soon as you notice any signs of decay.
The Foleck Center: Caring for Your Smile
At The Foleck Center, we are committed to helping patients in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Hampton Kecoughtan, and Hampton Coliseum keep their smiles healthy and cavity-free. Our team is here to guide you through the appropriate prevention, diagnosis, and treatment by using the latest technology and techniques.
If you suspect you have a cavity or just need a routine checkup, don’t wait — schedule an appointment or call us at 800-800-8000!
Let’s give you a smile that lasts a lifetime.
