A cavity is a hole in the tooth. As well as being unsightly, it can cause increased sensitivity in your tooth and discomfort and pain.
Causes of Cavities
Cavities are a result of tooth decay. Bacteria in the mouth combine with saliva and food debris to form plaque and as the bacteria turn carbohydrates into energy, they release acid. If the plaque builds up, this acid will increase and break down the surface of the teeth. The acid dissolves the minerals which make the tooth enamel strong, forming lots of tiny holes which will increase in size until a large hole appears. This is a cavity.
Treatment
The most common treatment for a cavity is to have a filling. The area around the tooth will be numbed so that the procedure is pain free. At CornerHouse, we offer ‘white fillings’ – tooth coloured material which can be matched specifically to the exact shade of your teeth. The filling will be inserted into the cavity and then shaped so that it both looks and feels natural and won’t be a hindrance when you are eating.
Prevention
To prevent cavities developing, you need to follow a routine which looks after your oral hygeine and prevents tooth decay. This means avoiding sugary food and drinks, brushing and flossing twice-daily, using a mouthwash and making sure you visit the dentist regularly so that any problems can be dealt with before they develop into something more serious.
If you are concerned about cavities, give us a call to ask any questions or make an appointment by calling 01603 621613 or booking online.