What is a Cavity?

No matter how well you take care of your teeth, you may still be at a risk of forming cavities. This is because of the plaque bacteria that forms in your mouth. The plaque bacteria breaks down the sugar in your mouth and forms an acid. This acid can cause your tooth enamel to rot and cause tooth decay. The enamel of your tooth breaks down and may cause cavities and holes in your mouth.

The plaque acids eat away the dentin and may cause a root cavity. You may feel pain at the root if eat or drink. If cavities develop, this may be a sign of your poor oral hygiene.

Causes

Tooth decay usually occurs when carbohydrates and sugars become trapped in your teeth. The more sugar you consume, the more acid is produced to break them down. Hence, more chances of tooth decay. The enamel starts weakening as the plaque combines with the sugars.

Not brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can also cause the formation of plaque. Of course eating and drinking is the main way to survive. However you have to take care of the kinds of foods you consume. Sodas, candies, chips can all cause formation of plaque. Moreover if you have a dry mouth, it may encourage the plaque to build up quickly.

Your mouth contains a lot of bacteria. While that bacteria is helpful in breaking down carbohydrates, the acid that forms is harmful for your teeth. Even medical problems like bulimia and vomiting expose your teeth to the risk of cavities.

Symptoms

• Toothache can indicate that cavity may be forming.
• If your teeth become super sensitive or it hurts when you bite down, it can indicate a cavity.
• Any holes or pits in your teeth.
• In serious cases, pus may form.

Prevention

There are many measures you can take to prevent cavities and tooth decay. It starts with a good oral hygiene routine. Get a tooth brush with a textured tongue cleaner and bristles that can reach remote corners of your mouth. Get toothpastes which are recommended by the American Dental Association with fluoride. Try getting those with no triclosan. Flossing is also crucial. Moreover, rinse your mouth after every meal with a mouthwash.

It can be tiring but brushing your teeth after every meal can reduce your chances of getting tooth decay and cavity. Start eating healthy foods such as vegetables and fruits. They help in scrubbing and rinsing your mouth too. Limit eating junk food and sugary foods. Chips can get easily stuck in teeth gaps.

Treatment

Cavities can be treated easily. The decayed part of the tooth is removed. The tooth is then filled with fillings such as composite resins, amalgam, gold, silver or porcelain. Fillings can help prevent the cavity from growing any further.

Start taking good care of your teeth at any early stage. Your oral hygiene can depict your overall health and may even worsen it.

The information provided is for general information purposes only and not intended to replace professional care. Please consult your physician or dentist for advice and diagnoses so you can be properly treated for your specific situation.