All You Have To Know About Cavities - Causes, Symptoms, Prevention

Most of us have experienced the troubling consequences of having a dental cavity. Dental cavities, also referred to tooth decay, can occur in anyone regardless of age. Cavities occur when oral bacteria permanently damage teeth creating holes that can cause infection, tooth pain, and a lot of dental and overall health issues.

One of the best ways to prevent cavities from occurring is to practice great oral hygiene habits. Routine dental visits are essential for spotting and stopping decay in its tracks, before progressing to deeper layers of the teeth and spreading infection to other parts of the body. This article will give complete information about symptoms, causes, treatments, and prevention tips for Cavity.

• Tooth decay is a common chronic disease impacting individuals of all ages.
• By the age of 35, approximately 80% of Americans have at least one cavity.

Understanding Cavity

What is Cavity?

One of the main culprits of cavities is oral bacteria, which produce acids that progressively break down the layers of teeth (tooth enamel, dentin, and pulp). Good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits and treatment can help keep oral bacteria at bay, lowering your risk of developing cavities.

Types of Cavities

Smooth surface

Smooth surface cavities are found on the outer layer of teeth, the dental enamel. Fortunately, this type of cavity is often slow-growing, and can sometimes be reversed with good oral hygiene and interventions like fluoride if caught early.

Recurrent Cavities

Recurrent cavities are present around existing dental restorations like fillings and crowns. Your dental professional may suggest treatment with a new restoration to eliminate the decay.

Pit and Fissure Cavities

Pit and fissure cavities occur on the tooth’s biting surface. Food tends to become trapped in the tooth’s grooves, which if not removed can cause tooth decay as oral bacteria turn the food particles into acids that breakdown teeth. Pit and fissure cavities often progress rapidly.

Root Cavities

Root cavities are common in adults who have gums that have pulled away from the teeth (gum recession). As a result, the tooth’s roots are exposed, which are more prone to tooth decay than dental enamel.

Secondary Cavities

Secondary cavities are another term for recurrent cavities. Repair or replacement of the dental restoration is typically necessary to eliminate the decay.

Stages of Cavity

Stage 1: Initial Demineralization

The first stage of tooth decay is characterized by small chalky spots on the surface of teeth, known as ‘white spot lesions.’ This occurs as a result of the breakdown of minerals (decalcification) within the tooth enamel.

Stage 2: Enamel decay

Enamel is the hardest substance in the body. However, it can be destroyed by tooth decay. If untreated, the bacteria can create holes and infect deeper layers of the tooth.

Stage 3: Dentin decay

Underneath the enamel layer of the tooth is dentin, which is less durable and more susceptible to decay than tooth enamel. Cavities progress faster once they penetrate dentin and you may experience tooth sensitivity.

Stage 4: Pulp damage

Dental pulp is the innermost layer of the tooth, which houses the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels. When tooth decay extends into the pulp, you may feel pain and the health of the tooth is compromised if not treated.

Stage 5: Abscessed tooth

An abscessed tooth is an infection that can be life-threatening. A deep cavity can result in an abscessed tooth if left untreated and can trigger pain and swelling around the tooth and lymph nodes. Tooth abscesses can also spread to other areas of the body, which is why immediate treatment is necessary.

Symptoms of Cavity

• Tooth Discoloration - Tooth discoloration is one of the easiest signs to notice when a cavity is present. It can appear early on as a white spot or may be dark brown or black in color.
• Holes or Pits - Cavities create holes or pits in the teeth as bacteria produce harmful acids that erode the tooth enamel. You may notice the hole visually or feel it with your tongue.
• Bad Breath - Chronic bad breath could be the sign of a cavity due to bacterial infection. It may even indicate the presence of gum disease.
• Bleeding Gums - Normally, healthy gums should not bleed. If you notice red, swollen, and bleeding gums, this could be a sign of an oral issue such as a cavity.
• Facial Swelling - Facial swelling is a serious sign of infection and should be addressed by a medical professional immediately. Facial swelling may commonly be caused by a tooth abscess, which is characterized by an accumulation of pus caused by a bacterial infection.
• Tooth Sensitivity - Your teeth may be more sensitive to extreme temperatures when you have a cavity. You may experience discomfort when you breathe in cool air or consume hot or cold foods or beverages for instance.
• Pain - A throbbing or aching tooth pain is a common symptom of tooth decay, which is often stimulated by hot and cold temperatures, or when pressure is applied to the affected area. Tooth pain may cause discomfort when you chew, swallow, and speak.

Causes of Cavities

Formation of Plaque

Dental plaque is a combination food debris, saliva, and bacteria that sticks to your teeth. If plaque is not removed from the teeth, the bacteria begin to attack the teeth by making acids that create tiny holes in the tooth enamel. Dental plaque that remains on the teeth can also form into a hardened form, known as dental tartar or calculus, which requires removal by trained dental professionals.

Health Conditions

Uncontrolled medical conditions can promote dental decay. Many medical conditions have a surprising connection to oral health, including diabetes, certain autoimmune conditions, eating disorders, acid reflux, thyroid issues, among many others. In addition, certain medications have side effects like dry mouth, which significantly increase your risk of developing tooth decay.

Dietary Habits

Diet matters when it comes to maintaining a healthy smile. Your teeth require a balanced diet with vitamins and minerals to stay strong and less prone to decay. Whereas acids and starches promote bacteria overgrowth, which leads to dental infection including tooth decay.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a condition caused by lack of saliva, which can increase your risk of tooth decay. Saliva is necessary to protect teeth from bacteria as it helps wash away food debris and plaque, and contains minerals that help strengthen tooth enamel.

Inadequate Oral Care

One of the most common causes of dental cavities is poor oral hygiene. Inadequate brushing and flossing, and not visiting your dentist regularly for professional treatment can quickly lead to the development of cavities.

Excessive Sugar Consumption

A healthy diet plays a key role in your oral health. It is best to avoid sugary and acidic foods and beverages, which is one of the leading causes of tooth decay. Bacteria use sugars to produce acids that weaken your teeth.

Diagnosis of Cavity

A dental professional is necessary to diagnose and treat a cavity. Your dentist will assess your symptoms and perform a thorough exam with dental X-rays that will show the extent of the decay. They will identify the type of cavity you have and provide you with the ideal treatment plan to serve your individual needs.

Cavity Treatment

Fluoride

Fluoride is a safe and effective treatment option to help prevent tooth decay. It strengthens tooth enamel and can even reverse early tooth decay. Your dental professional may recommend a fluoride gel, foam, or varnish, or a prescription strength fluoride toothpaste or mouth rinse.

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a common treatment for tooth decay to help restore the tooth to its normal function. Your dental professional will remove the decay and reshape the tooth back to its natural shape. Fillings can be made of various materials, including tooth-colored composite resins or dental amalgam.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy may be indicated when tooth decay has extended into the innermost layer of the tooth, the dental pulp. Your dentist will remove the decay from within the tooth’s root and seal it off from bacteria with a filling material.

Crowns

For teeth that have lost tooth structure and support from decay, a dental crown may be recommended to protect the tooth from additional harm and infection. A dental crown is custom-made to fit over the tooth’s entire natural crown once the decay is removed. Crowns may be made of different materials, including gold, porcelain, zirconia, porcelain fused to metal or other materials.

Tooth extraction

In cases where the tooth decay is extensive, tooth extractions will be recommended. Your dental professional will inform you of options to replace the tooth once it is extracted, to prevent your teeth from shifting and maintain the health of your jawbone.

How to Prevent Cavities?

Brush and Floss Daily

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day. You should brush your teeth for at least two minutes, making sure to remove plaque from all surfaces of the teeth and tongue. It is also necessary to floss daily to remove plaque that becomes trapped between teeth and underneath the gumline.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste and Mouthwash

Fluoride is a mineral that is proven to help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. It is recommended to brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and rinse with mouthwash containing fluoride, ideally after every meal to gain the cavity-fighting benefits.

Limit Sugary Foods & Drinks

Bacteria thrive on sugary foods and drinks. They turn these sugars into damaging acids that wear down your tooth enamel. It is recommended to opt for tooth-friendly foods and beverages full of vitamins and nutrients that promote strong teeth, such as cheese, yogurt, leafy greens, lean proteins, nuts, and apples.

Reduce Starchy Food Intake

Starchy foods tend to get stuck in the grooves and pits of your teeth and allow bacteria to interact with the starches and produce acid. Improving your diet can significantly lower your risk of developing tooth decay.

Avoid Tobacco Products

Tobacco products cause harm to your entire body, including your smile. Tobacco can increase your risk of tooth decay, oral cancer, gum disease, and many other medical and dental problems. In addition, it can cause chronic bad breath and teeth staining.

Avoid Frequent Snacking and Sipping

Frequent snacking and sipping increase your exposure to an acidic oral environment that harmful bacteria thrive in. Foods and beverages commonly contain sugars and carbohydrates that bacteria use to create acids that destroy your teeth. This in turn increases your risk of developing cavities.

Consume Alcohol in Moderation

It is recommended to limit alcohol consumption, as it is acidic and metabolizes into sugar, which promotes bacteria accumulation and dental cavity development. Frequent alcohol consumption can also lead to teeth staining and sensitivity, among many other oral issues.

Consider Dental Sealants for Added Protection

Dental sealants are protective dental restorations that cover the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. This helps shield the pits and grooves of the teeth from trapping food and bacterial plaque that contribute to cavities. Dental sealants are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for all school-age children.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Visiting your dentist is a must in order to maintain a healthy smile free of infection! Professional teeth cleanings and routine exams help identify and treat issues early. In addition, other preventative treatments such as fluoride therapy, dental sealants, and oral health education can be provided by your dental professionals.

Conclusion

Cavities, or tooth decay, is a preventable condition that we can all try our best to avoid. Cavities are caused by bacteria, which produce acids from the sugars we consume that damage the teeth and lead to infection. If cavities are not treated in a timely manner, you are at risk for serious problems including tooth loss, gum disease, and the spread of infection throughout the body. Managing your dental care at home and with regular dental check-ups can help save your smile from cavities. Be sure to schedule an appointment with a dentist if you experience tooth pain, tooth discoloration, facial swelling, trouble chewing or speaking, bleeding gums, or other mentioned signs of infection.