What Does A Cavity Look Like? ( And How It Can Be Treated)

How do you know if you have a cavity? What does a cavity look like anyway?

And what can you do to prevent them in the first place?

Cavities are caused by tooth decay, which is a result of acids made by bacteria eating away at your enamel.

If left untreated, cavities can cause pain and even tooth loss. Luckily, there are ways to prevent them from occurring in the first place.

Also Read: How to Stop Receding Gums From Getting Worse

Table of Contents

What Exactly Is a Cavity?

A cavity is one of the most common dental problems, and it can occur at any age. A cavity is simply a hole in your tooth that starts on the surface of the tooth.

If left untreated, a cavity will continue to work its way inward towards the dentin (bony tissue beneath the outer enamel) and nerves connected to the tooth.

This can lead to pain, sensitivity, and eventually tooth loss.

Early detection and treatment are essential to preventing cavities from progressing.

Your dentist can spot early signs of cavities during a routine checkup and recommend treatment options, such as fillings or sealants.

Regular brushing and flossing at home can also help to prevent cavities by removing plaque and bacteria from your teeth. With proper care, you can keep your smile healthy and cavity-free for life.

Read: Veneers vs Implants: What’s the Difference?

Cavities are a major health and financial concern.

Cavities are irreversible damage to teeth. You might also hear caries or tooth decay referred to as cavities.

Cavities are a serious health concern throughout the world, including in the United States. Consider these CDC statistics:

-Between the ages of six and eleven, about one out of every six children has had at least one cavity.

-More than a quarter of people worldwide have untreated tooth cavities.

-Around 1 out of 6 people over the age of 65 have no teeth left.

-Smokers are three times more likely to suffer from tooth loss..

-Dental problems account for nearly 35 million school hours lost each year.

-Oral health-related issues cost the economy an estimated $45 billion in productivity every year.

-In 2018, $136 billion was spent in the United States on dental care, including cavity detection and treatment.

What are the causes of cavities?

Cavities are the result of three stages of tooth decay, which is known as progressive dental decay.

Formation of plaque

If you consume a lot of sugars, including starches, and don’t clean your teeth properly, plaque will form on your teeth as a result of normal mouth bacteria feeding on those sugars.

Plaque is a clear film that has a somewhat elastic feel about it. After an extended time not brushing, you may have felt plaques on your teeth.

Plaque, once it hardens into tartar (also known as calculus), is more difficult to remove and actually serves as a protection for the germs that cause plaque in the first place.

Gum disease or periodontitis can also be caused by plaque moving beneath the gum line.

Plaque attack

Plaque on the surface of the teeth eats away at minerals in enamel, the hard outer coating. Tiny holes open up in the enamel, which are the earliest forms of cavities.

This makes it easier for bacteria and acids in plaque to keep moving towards the dentin. Dentin has microscopic tubes in it that connect to the underlying nerves.

That’s why tooth sensitivity is often a calling card for this phase of cavity development.

The tooth is progressively getting worse

When the tooth is not treated, erosion of the outermost layer, or dentin, of the tooth continues. The pulp is where all of the nerves and blood vessels are located.

Bacteria can cause pulp irritation and swelling by getting in the area. Swelling can put pressure on the nerves and that might cause pain. The pain might also go to bone above or below the tooth.

Factors that contribute to the development of cavities

There are several factors that can raise the risk of cavities in you or someone in your family:

– Not brushing teeth properly

– Consuming a lot of sugars, including starches

– Not flossing regularly

– Having gum disease or periodontitis

– Smoking

– Drinking acidic beverages like soda or juice

– Eating sticky foods that get stuck in teeth like candy or dried fruit

– Not visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings

– Having dry mouth or xerostomia

– Wearing braces that make it difficult to brush and floss properly

– Having certain medical conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders

-Chewing on ice

-Brushing with too much force

– Eating crunchy snacks like carrots and apples

– Using mouthwash that contains alcohol

– not using a dental sealant

How can I tell if I have a cavity?

The only way to know for sure if you have a cavity is to visit your dentist. During a regular checkup, your dentist will examine your teeth for cavities.

They may use a small mirror to look at all surfaces of your teeth. They may also use probes to check for soft spots on your teeth, which could indicate decay.

If they suspect you have a cavity, they may take an X-ray of the affected tooth. The X-ray will show them the extent of the decay and help them determine the best way to treat it.

Cavities can also be detected with laser fluorescence, which uses a special light to detect early decay. Your dentist may use this device if they suspect you have a cavity but cannot see it with a regular exam.

How are cavities treated?

The treatment for cavities depends on how severe they are. For small cavities, your dentist may simply smooth out the area and put in a filling.

For larger cavities, they may need to put in a crown or cap. This is a type of dental restoration that covers the entire tooth.

In some cases, root canals may be necessary. This is when the nerve of the tooth is damaged and needs to be removed.

Once the nerve is removed, the cavity can be filled and a crown can be placed over the tooth.

Extraction may be necessary in some cases, which is when the tooth is pulled out. This is usually only done if the tooth is severely damaged or decayed and cannot be saved with a filling, crown, or root canal.

Prevention

The best way to prevent cavities is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing once a day, and using mouthwash.

It’s also important to eat healthy foods and limit sugary snacks and drinks. Be sure to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

If you have a medical condition that raises your risk of cavities, be sure to tell your dentist so they can take extra care in monitoring your teeth.

Sealants are also a great way to prevent cavities, especially in children. Sealants are thin coatings that are applied to the back teeth, which are more difficult to brush.

They create a barrier between the tooth and food and plaque, which can help prevent cavities. fluoride is another great way to prevent cavities. Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps protect against decay.

You can get fluoride in many ways, including drinking fluoridated water, using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash, and getting fluoride treatments at the dentist.

Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, but they are also one of the most preventable. By practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly, you can help keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free.

What Does a Cavity Look Like?

In each patient’s mouth, cavities appear to be unique. The size, shape, and location of decay will vary.

No matter how big or small the hole in your tooth is, it’s important to treat cavities as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Cavities can appear as small pits in your teeth or large holes that go all the way through the enamel and expose the dentin underneath.

You may notice them yourself when you look in the mirror or feel them with your tongue.

Your dentist can also detect cavities during regular checkups.

They will use a small mirror to examine all surfaces of your teeth and may use probes to feel for soft spots on your teeth, which could indicate decay.

What are the symptoms of cavities?

Cavities don’t always cause symptoms in the early stages. You may not realize you have a cavity until it becomes large enough to cause pain.

The first sign of a cavity is often a toothache. This can range from a dull ache to sharp pain that comes and goes.

You may also notice sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. This is because the cavity has reached the dentin, which contains tiny tubes that lead to the nerve of the tooth.

As the decay gets worse, you may notice other symptoms, such as:

-Bad breath

-A bitter taste in your mouth

-Pain when chewing

-Swelling or tender

-gums

-Visible holes or pits in your teeth

Dark spots on your teeth

What should I do if I think I have a cavity?

If you think you have a cavity, the best thing to do is make an appointment with your dentist.

They will be able to confirm whether or not you have a cavity and recommend treatment.

Treatment for cavities will depend on how severe the decay is. In most cases, cavities can be treated with fillings.

Fillings are made of materials such as gold, silver amalgam (a mixture of metals), composite resin (tooth-colored filling), or glass ionomer (a type of plastic).

Your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then fill the resulting hole with the chosen material.

If the decay is caught early, a filling may be all that’s needed to treat the cavity.

However, if the cavity is large or has reached the pulp (the center of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels), you may need a root canal.

How Are Cavities Treated?

Tooth removal

If there is too much damage to a tooth, dentist may need to remove (extract) it. This can be done by a dentist or an oral surgeon.

A tooth may also need to be removed if it is preventing other teeth from aligning properly.

Filling

If the cavity is small, your dentist will most likely fill it with a composite resin (tooth-colored filling).

This type of filling is matched to the color of your teeth. It can be used on any tooth, even those in the front of your mouth.

Amalgam (silver) fillings are also an option, but they are not usually used on front teeth because they are noticeable.

Crowns

Crowns are used to restore teeth that are broken, worn down, or have large cavities. Crowns can also be used to cover a tooth after a root canal.

A crown is a type of cap that fits over the entire tooth. It can be made of gold, porcelain, or ceramic.

Bridges

Bridges are used to fill the space left by a missing tooth (or teeth).

A bridge is made up of two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth ( pontic) in between.

The two crowns are attached to the pontic and are cemented into place.

Dentures

Dentures are removable appliances that can be used to replace missing teeth. Complete dentures are used to replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw.

Partial dentures are used to replace some of the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw.

Implants

An implant is a metal post that is surgically placed in the jawbone. A dental prosthetic (artificial tooth) is then attached to the post. This is a permanent way to replace a missing tooth.

What are the Complications of Cavities?

Cavities can lead to more serious problems if they are not treated.

Possible complications include:

-Tooth decay that spreads to other teeth

-Infection of the pulp (the center of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels)

which can lead to an abscess

-Bone loss around the tooth

Cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases in children. They are also a major reason for tooth loss in adults.

Cavities can be prevented by good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.

If you think you have a cavity, see your dentist as soon as possible to get it treated.

What Can You Do to Prevent Cavities?

Below are some ways you can prevent cavities:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

Brushing your teeth correctly is the first line of defense against cavities.

You should brush at least two times a day, ideally after every meal, but you should certainly brush at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.

Keep a toothbrush and toothpaste in your bag, backpack, or briefcase so you can clean your teeth as often as necessary. Assist toddlers with regular brushing until they’re old enough to do it on their own.

Floss daily.

Flossing is important because it helps remove plaque and bacteria from areas where your toothbrush can’t reach.

If you don’t floss regularly, you’re more likely to develop cavities, gum disease, and other problems.

Use mouthwash.

Mouthwash can help prevent cavities by reducing the amount of plaque on your teeth.

It’s important to choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride. You should swish the mouthwash around in your mouth for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out.

Eat healthy foods and avoid sugary drinks.

Eating a balanced diet is good for your overall health, including your teeth and gums. Avoid sugary drinks like soda,

-Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks.

-Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.

-Use dental products that contain fluoride, including toothpaste, mouthwash, and fluoride treatments.

-Sealants are a type of protective coating that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth to prevent cavities.

-If you have braces or other dental appliances, make sure to clean them regularly and as directed by your dentist.

rinsing

Water or mouthwash rinsing may assist get rid of the last traces of food after brushing. It’s also useful if you don’t have a choice right now.

If you have specific dental requirements, your dentist may prescribe a fluoride or antibiotic rinse.

Taking in plenty of water is essential.

Water consumption has a plethora of advantages, including the prevention of cavities.

Staying hydrated allows your saliva to be more effective in preventing plaque development by promoting hydration.

You can further assist your teeth by switching from soft drinks or fruit juices to water. And if you have fluoridated tap water, as many municipalities do, it’s even better for your oral health.

Remove the need for constant snacking and sipping.

If you eat or drink sugary snacks and beverages throughout the day, you’re constantly exposing your teeth to cavity-causing bacteria.

This increases your risk of cavities, especially if you have poor oral hygiene habits.

To reduce your risk of cavities, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and brush or rinse your mouth after eating or drinking.

Infant bedtime bottle feeding is not advised.

Remember, feeding a baby milk or juice in a bottle at bedtime, particularly if the kid takes the bottle to bed with them, leaves an excessive amount of sugar on the teeth over night.

Set a time limit for feeding before going to bed and start brushing their teeth early to form a good habit. The same procedures apply to toddlers drinking from sippy cups.

Fluoride applications should be made on a regular basis.

When a person does not consume enough tap water fluoride, dentists frequently prescribe fluorides treatments.

Individuals who only consume bottled water, for example, do not receive the same fluoride as the rest of their community.

Those who are at very high risk of tooth decay may be given fluoride treatments.

Chew gum with xylitol in it

Chewing sugarless gum that contains xylitol helps stimulate saliva production, which aids in the removal of superfluous sugars from the mouth.

Additionally, after a meal when brushing is not an option, chewing a piece of sugarless gum can assist remove food debris from your teeth.

Visit your doctor regularly

Maintaining good oral health is essential to overall health and well-being.

See your dentist or dental hygienist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups, and brush and floss daily.

If you have any concerns about your oral health, be sure to talk to your dentist. They can help you determine the best course of action to take.

FAQ About Cavities

Below are some frequently asked questions about cavities:

What can I do to prevent cavities?

-There are several things you can do to help prevent cavities:

-Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.

-Floss daily.

-Visit your dentist or dental hygienist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.

-Use toothpaste and mouthwash that contain fluoride.

-Limit sugary snacks and drinks.

-Chew sugarless gum that contains xylitol.

What to do if you suspect you have a cavity?

If you think you might have a cavity, the best thing to do is to make an appointment with your dentist.

They will be able to confirm whether or not you have a cavity and recommend treatment options.

What are some treatment options for cavities?

The treatment options for cavities depend on the severity of the cavity. If the cavity is small, your dentist may be able to treat it with a filling.

For larger cavities, you may need a crown or root canal. Your dentist will determine the best treatment option for you based on the severity of your cavity.

What to do if you can’t afford dental treatment?

If you are unable to afford dental treatment, there are several options available to you.

You can contact your local dental society or search online for dental assistance programs in your area.

There are also many dentists who offer payment plans or discounts for patients without dental insurance.

How do cavities form?

Cavities form when the tooth enamel is weakened by acids. The acids are produced when plaque comes into contact with sugary or starchy foods.

The plaque produces the acids, which eat away at the tooth enamel, causing a cavity to form.

Can cavities be reversed?

Unfortunately, once a cavity has formed, it cannot be reversed. However, there are things you can do to prevent cavities from getting worse.

Brushing and flossing regularly, visiting your dentist for professional cleanings and checkups, and using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash can all help prevent cavities from getting worse.

Cavities are a common problem, but there are things you can do to prevent them. By following the tips above, you can help keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free.

If you think you might have a cavity, don’t wait to see your dentist. The sooner you get treatment, the better.

cavities can be painful and cause serious problems if left untreated, so be sure to see your dentist if you think you might have one.

How often should I see my dentist?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you see your dentist at least once a year for a professional cleaning and checkup.

If you have a history of cavities or other dental problems, you may need to see your dentist more often.

Be sure to talk to your dentist about how often you should schedule appointments.

Do I need to see a dentist if I don’t have insurance?

Yes, you should still see a dentist even if you don’t have dental insurance.

There are many dentists who offer payment plans or discounts for patients without dental insurance.

You can also search online for dental assistance programs in your area.

By seeing a dentist regularly, you can help prevent cavities and other dental problems.

What are some signs of a cavity?

The most common sign of a cavity includes:

– Toothache

– Sensitivity to hot or cold

– Pain when biting down

– Brown or black spots on the tooth’s surface

– Swelling and redness around the tooth

– A hole in the tooth

– Loose teeth

– Bad breath that doesn’t go away

– Gums that are receding from the tooth

– A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite down.

What are some non-profits that help people with dental costs?

There are many non-profits that help people with dental costs, such as the American Dental Association Foundation and the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.