Dental Care: What is a Cavity?

A cavity forms when plaque is left on a tooth which in turn produces tooth decay. This decay eats away at the tooth and produces a hole, which is known as a cavity. If untreated, a cavity can become larger and deeper and affect the inside of the tooth including the nerve endings. Plaque, which attaches itself to your tooth enamel, combines with the acid that is produced by the bacteria in your mouth. This substance then eats away at the enamel forming a cavity, or hole in the tooth. If the cavity becomes deep enough to enter the inner part of the tooth it can become painful as the inside decays and effects your never endings.

Prevention of cavities is quite easy, daily brushing is essential to keep your teeth cavity free. It is recommended that you brush at least twice a day and spend a few minutes each time properly brushing both the inside and outside of your teeth. Flossing a minimum of once a day will also help prevent cavities from forming. You may still develop a cavity even if you floss and brush on a daily basis, that's why it's important to see a dentist at least bi-annually. Cavities are usually painless and may go unknown for awhile until it reaches the inner areas of the tooth and begins to decay and affect the nerve endings.

I have a cavity, now what? You will need to obtain cavity treatment to remove the cavities and repair the damage done to your teeth. Your dentist will take an x-ray to determine how many cavities you may have and the extent of the damage. From there he or she will use a specialized drill to remove the cavity and make repairs. The dentist will fill the hole with a special material known as a filling once the damaged tooth material has been fully removed. The four typical types of fillings are gold fillings, silver, composite resins, and porcelain. You should discuss your choices with your dentist to determine what fit's your specific needs and budget.

If the damage to your tooth or teeth is extensive you may require a crown or cap to be placed in lieu of a filling. Another item of concern is if the cavity has reached your nerve ending. If this happens the next course of action could possibly be to have a root canal. The best cavity prevention is a regular regime of brushing and flossing. It's best to brush after every meal and you should try to make regular check up visits to a family dentist. It's easy to remember if you schedule them for the same time every year.

Sources:

http://kidshealth.org/kid/health_problems/teeth/cavity.html

http://dentistry.about.com/od/dentalfaqs/f/cavity.htm

http://www.colgate.com/app/Colgate/US/OC/Information/OralHealthBasics/CheckupsDentProc/Fillings/WhatIsAFilling.cvsp

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-cavities