One of the common oral health problems that affect a large number of people is dental cavities (often called tooth decay) which can occur at any age. Cavities, although preventable are still a major concern because of the pain they can cause as well as tooth loss and other complications as told by a dentist in Ventura. In this article, we will talk about dental cavities and the symptoms related to them in Ventura
What is a Dental Cavity?
A cavity is a hole in a tooth created when the enamel (the hard outer layer of your teeth) is destroyed by acids made from plaque. Acids are usually produced by bacteria, feeding on sugars and starches left on teeth after eating or drinking. If a cavity is not treated, it may increase in size and affect the deeper layers of the tooth resulting in more serious dental issues.
Dental cavities are caused by
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene is responsible for tooth decay. If you neglect to brush and floss daily, plaque — a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth — can cake onto the surface instead. Acids attack the enamel of your teeth, which starts a slow-moving process into decay and then cavities.
2. Lack of Fluoride
Fluoride is a natural mineral that protects teeth by adding to the strength of tooth enamel and enhancing resistance to acids. Decreased risk for cavities in your mouth: A decrease in fluoride, from water or dental products, can present an opportunity for the development of caries.
3. Dry Mouth
One of the important ways saliva helps keep our mouths healthy is by washing away food particles and balancing acids. If you have a dry mouth, whether it is due to medication or a medical condition, your likelihood of cavities goes up because there is less saliva available to defend your teeth.
4. Worn Crowns or Dental Fillings
Dental crowns and fillings may deteriorate or wear over time, leaving gaps that allow germs to grow. These are easy places for cavities to form since they are hard to clean well.
5. Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as acid reflux or eating disorders, can expose your teeth to stomach acids, leading to enamel erosion and increased cavity risk.
Symptoms of Tooth Cavities
It is important to spot dental cavities at an early stage so that they can be treated quickly. Some common symptoms include:
- Tooth Sensitivity: Overly receptive to hot or cold foods/ beverages and sweet offerings.
- Toothache: Unending or severe pain felt in the tooth, particularly while pressing it down.
- Visible Holes or Pits: Cavities generally look like small holes or pits in the surface of a tooth.
- Staining: The dark spots or discoloration on a tooth may also signal that there is a cavity.
- Bad Breath: If a child has bad breath that doesn’t go away it can be a sign of tooth decay since bacteria create compounds that cause the smell.
This is a preventable problem, and in this post, we talk about what cavities are and some ways that you can help avoid them. With knowledge of the causes, signs to look out for and best preventative measures in Ventura can uphold their smiles against tooth decay. Preventive care — meaning routine dental appointments, oral hygiene habits at home, and eating a balanced diet go a long way in keeping your teeth strong. If you think that you may have a cavity, or just want to see if there are any preventative steps to take for your unique situation, consult with your dentist.
