- What is a Cavity?
- How to Identify a Cavity
- Causes of Cavities
- Risk Factors for Cavities
- Poor oral hygiene
- Poor Diet
- Certain medical conditions
- Treatment Options for Cavities
- Dental Filling
- Root Canal
- Tooth Extraction
- Home Remedies for Cavities
- Prevention Tips for Avoiding Cavities
- When to See a Dentist for a Cavity
- Visit Your Dentist at Lovett Dental Now!
- Conclusion
Cavities are among the most common dental problems affecting people of all ages. They are caused by bacteria that break down the enamel of your teeth, creating tiny holes in the teeth that can lead to pain and discomfort.
If you’ve ever experienced a cavity, you know how uncomfortable it can be. But what does a cavity feel like exactly?
In this article, we’ll explore the symptoms of a cavity so you can better understand what you’re feeling and how to address it.
Contents
What is a Cavity?
A cavity is a hole in a tooth’s hard surface caused by decay. It is caused by bacteria that live in the mouth and form a sticky film called plaque.
This plaque breaks down the tooth’s enamel, creating tiny holes that can expand over time if left untreated.
Cavities can be found on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, between two teeth, and even inside the tooth.
The most common symptom of a cavity is tooth pain, ranging from mild to severe. When the cavity is small and only affects the tooth’s outer surface, the pain may be minor and only noticeable when eating or drinking.
The pain can become sharper and more intense as the cavity grows and damages more of the tooth structure. Other cavity symptoms can include sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, bad breath, and a bitter taste in the mouth.
How to Identify a Cavity
The best way to identify a cavity is to see your dentist for a regular check-up. During a dental examination, your dentist will use a special tool to detect cavities.
If a cavity is found, your dentist may take X-rays to determine the size and extent of the decay.
Another way to identify a cavity is to look for signs of decay on your teeth. If you notice any dark spots, pits, or holes in your teeth, this could be a sign of a cavity. You may also notice that your teeth are more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures than usual.
Causes of Cavities
Cavities are caused by bacteria that live in the mouth and form a sticky film called plaque. The bacteria in plaque feed on sugars and starches in the food we eat, producing acids that attack the enamel of the teeth. Over time, the acids can break down the enamel, creating tiny holes in the teeth that can eventually grow and become cavities.
Cavities can also be caused by poor oral hygiene. When you don’t brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque can build up and cause decay. Additionally, some medications can cause dry mouth, reducing the saliva in your mouth and increasing the risk of cavities.
Risk Factors for Cavities
There are several risk factors for cavities, including poor oral hygiene, a poor diet, and certain medical conditions.
Poor oral hygiene
People who don’t brush and floss their teeth regularly are at a higher risk of developing cavities.
Poor Diet
Eating foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates can also increase the risk of cavities, as these foods can feed the bacteria in plaque.
Certain medical conditions
Additionally, people with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or GERD, are at a higher risk of developing cavities.
Treatment Options for Cavities
The treatment for cavities depends on the size and extent of the decay.
Dental Filling
If the cavity is small and only affects the tooth’s outer surface, your dentist may be able to fill the cavity with a tooth-colored filling.
Root Canal
If the cavity is more extensive and has damaged more of the tooth structure, your dentist may need to perform a root canal to remove the decay and seal the tooth.
Tooth Extraction
In some cases, the dentist may need to extract the tooth if the decay is too extensive.
Home Remedies for Cavities
If you are experiencing mild tooth pain from a cavity, you can try some home remedies to relieve the discomfort.
One of the best ways to reduce the pain is to rinse your mouth with warm salt water. This will help reduce inflammation and kill the bacteria causing the decay.
Additionally, you can try applying a cold compress to the affected area or taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Prevention Tips for Avoiding Cavities
There are several steps you can take to prevent cavities and keep your teeth healthy. The most important thing is to practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day.
Additionally, you should limit the amount of sugary and starchy foods you eat, and make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Regular dental check-ups are also important, as they can help your dentist detect problems early on.
When to See a Dentist for a Cavity
If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, seeing your dentist as soon as possible is essential.
Your dentist can diagnose the problem and determine the best treatment option.
Additionally, seeing your dentist for regular check-ups is essential to detect any cavities early on. The earlier a cavity is detected, the easier it will be to treat.
Visit Your Dentist at Lovett Dental Now!
We are committed to helping you achieve your best smile by utilizing modern dental techniques, the latest technology, and world-class patient care. We have assembled a team of board-certified specialists covering a broad range of dentistry services.
Doctors specializing in the most advanced dental procedures to achieve complete smile makeovers; specialists utilizing dental implants to restore smiles; highly trained pediatric dentists and orthodontists treating the unique needs of children
Our experienced professionals are ready to take care of your dental needs. You’ll find us throughout the greater Houston area, including Beaumont and Corpus Christi, under a few names, including Lovett, Splendid, Haven Dentistry, and Our Children’s Dentist & Orthodontist.
When you visit your dentist at Lovett Dental, you can enjoy your treats without worry. We offer a wide range of services to help you keep your teeth healthy, including teeth cleanings, check-ups, and dental exams.
We also specialize in cosmetic dentistry, offering procedures such as composite fillings, veneers, and crowns to help you look and feel your best. If you have questions about our services or treatment options, don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Conclusion
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems that can cause pain and discomfort. They are caused by bacteria that break down the enamel of your teeth, creating tiny holes in the teeth.
The most common symptom of a cavity is tooth pain, which can range from mild to severe. If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible.
Additionally, there are several steps you can take to prevent cavities, such as practicing good oral hygiene and limiting sugary and starchy foods.
