Getting cavity treatment from a general dentist is important. Cavities are holes or openings that develop in the hard tooth surface. Cavities are also known as caries or tooth decay. They are caused by different factors that include bacteria in the mouth and too many sugary snacks and drinks.
Failing to clean teeth properly can lead to cavities. Cavities affect people of all ages. Anyone who has teeth has the potential to get cavities. Failing to treat cavities can cause them to get larger, affecting the deeper layers of the teeth.
The symptoms will usually depend on the location and extent of the cavities. In the early stages, one may not notice any symptoms. As the cavity gets bigger, it causes symptoms, including toothache, tooth sensitivity, and visible pits or holes in the teeth. Other symptoms include pain when drinking or eating something hot or cold and pain when biting. Black, brown, or white stains on the tooth surface can also be signs of cavities. A regular dental checkup is necessary for detecting cavities before the symptoms begin.
Cavities occur due to tooth decay. This is something that happens over time. Tooth decay develops due to the formation of dental plaque that attacks the minerals in the enamel. When the enamel wears off, acid and bacteria can reach the dentin, which is the next layer of the tooth.
The dentin is softer than the enamel. Therefore, damaging it causes sensitivity. As the decay develops, the inner tooth material, or pulp, becomes irritated and swollen, pressing the nerve. The result is pain and discomfort extending to the bone.
A visit to the general dentist can produce a diagnosis for cavities. The dentist will also examine the teeth and mouth. Using dental instruments, the dentist will probe the teeth looking for soft areas. Dental X-rays will help to reveal the extent of decay and cavities. A general dentist can determine the type of cavity that the patient has. The different types of cavities are smooth surface cavities, pit and fissure cavities, and root cavities.
Regular checkups will help in the early detection of cavities and decay. The earlier one gets treatment, the better the chances of reversing tooth decay and preventing the progression of the condition. Treatment will depend on the situation and the severity of the cavities. Treatment options include fluoride treatments, fillings, crowns, root canals, and tooth extractions. Fluoride treatments are necessary during the early stages. If a tooth is severely decayed, extraction is the only option.
You should take cavities and tooth decay seriously. Cavities can cause dental and health complications. Some people assume that it does not matter if kids get cavities because their baby teeth will come out. Tooth decay and cavities can have lasting and serious complications. This is the case even if permanent teeth have not emerged.
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