Cavities

What Are Cavities?

Causes of Cavities

• The mouth contains many types of bacteria. Some are beneficial, while others are harmful. When you consume sugary or starchy foods, these bacteria feed on the sugars and produce acids. These acids can combine with food debris, saliva, and bacteria to form plaque, a sticky, colourless film that coats the teeth.
• Frequent consumption of sugary foods and drinks, including candies, sodas, and fruit juices, can lead to cavities. Starchy foods, like bread and chips, can also contribute because they break down into sugars that bacteria can use.
• Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque build-up. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar (or calculus), which makes it more difficult to keep teeth clean.
• Saliva helps wash away food and plaque from your teeth and neutralises acids produced by bacteria. A dry mouth, which can be caused by certain medications, medical conditions, or treatments, reduces saliva flow, increasing the risk of cavities.
• Certain conditions, such as acid reflux or eating disorders, can expose teeth to stomach acids. Moreover, conditions like diabetes can affect the body’s ability to fight off infections, including those in the mouth.

Symptoms of Cavities

• Toothache or spontaneous pain

• Sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold foods and drinks

• Visible holes or pits in your teeth

• Staining on the surface of your teeth

• Pain when you bite down

Treatment for Cavities

• In the early stages of tooth decay, a fluoride treatment can help restore your tooth's enamel. Fluoride treatments are available in the form of gels, varnishes, or foams and can be applied by a dentist.
• If the cavity has progressed beyond the earliest stage, fillings are the main treatment. Fillings can be made from various materials, including composite resins, porcelain, or dental amalgam.
• For more severe decay, a crown may be necessary. A crown is a custom-fitted covering that replaces the tooth's natural crown. Crowns can be made of gold, porcelain, or porcelain fused to metal.
• If the decay reaches the inner material of your tooth (pulp), you may need a root canal. This treatment involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then filling and sealing it.
• In cases where the tooth is so severely damaged that it cannot be restored, the tooth may need to be removed. This can lead to a gap that might require a dental implant or bridge to prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting.

Prevention of Cavities

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups. This helps in the early detection and treatment of cavities.
• Reduce your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks. Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where cavities are most likely to form. Sealants can prevent decay by creating a barrier against bacteria and food particles.
• Drink plenty of water, especially if you have a dry mouth. Chewing sugar-free gum can also help stimulate saliva production.
• Use fluoride-containing dental products and consider drinking fluoridated water. Fluoride helps prevent cavities by making teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth.