Grins & Giggles Family Dentistry is now accepting new patients! |
What is a Cavity? Spokane Valley WAGood oral health is integral for your overall wellness. Practicing good oral hygiene and regular checkups can improve your dental health so you can avoid cavities. A cavity is a minor hole that is formed in your teeth due to bacteria, sugar, and the breakdown of the tooth structure. Grins & Giggles Family Dentistry conducts dental tests of your mouth to find any cavities in your teeth. Our doctor, Dr. Mostafa Kabbani will create an effective plan to treat the cavity and prevent further damage. Cavities are often the main problem in dentistry for kids, which is why getting regular checkups is essential to avoid dental issues in the future. What is a Cavity?A cavity is also referred to as tooth decay or dental caries. The decay forms gradually and painlessly, making it hard to detect. It can affect both the inner layer, dentin, and the outer coating, enamel, of the teeth. Cavities become bigger and deeper with time if not detected early and treated. This results in severe pain and discomfort. Catching a cavity early can ensure you get the right treatment before the problem gets worse. Typically, the dentist treats this problem with dental fillings. Causes of CavitiesA cavity is caused by plaque, which forms due to the amalgamation of food particles, acid, saliva, and bacteria. When you consume sugary drinks or foods, the mouth bacteria transform this sugar into acid. This starts eroding the enamel, which protects against tooth decay. As the enamel weakens, the chances of a cavity increase. Symptoms of a CavityThe signs of a cavity can vary based on the location and extent. While you might not have any symptoms when the cavity develops, you might experience the signs as it grows. Some signs may include:
Treatments for a CavityA cavity can cause severe pain that can be temporarily reduced using over-the-counter medication that the dentist prescribes. While you wait for your appointment, you can treat the signs and symptoms of the cavity by:
The dentist will examine your teeth to check the severity of the cavity and the damage already caused to create a treatment plan. Typically, the treatment involves removing the decayed part of the tooth and repairing it with the appropriate option, including:
Cavities can cause severe damage and spread to the surrounding teeth if not treated in a timely manner. It is important to get regular checkups and consult a dentist in case of any pain. |