At some point, practically everyone will have to deal with a tooth cavity. While tooth decay is mostly a concern in children, adults are also susceptible to cavities.
Lanier Family & Cosmetic Dentistry offers complete care for children as well as adults. One of our primary dental concerns is the prevention and management of tooth decay. Buford, GA dentists Dr. Brown and Dr. Newberry suggest that patients visit bi-annually for routine examination and professional teeth cleaning.
Treatment for Tooth Cavities in Buford, GA
One of the ways you can prevent tooth cavities is with sealants, plastic coverings that protect teeth. If you already have signs of tooth decay, the dentist may recommend the following treatment:
- Root Canals
- Composite Dental Fillings
- Porcelain or Gold Fillings
Why Do You Get Cavities?
Cavities, or tooth decay, are almost always the result of sugars left behind on surfaces of the teeth and gums. Sugars are quickly turned into harmful acids by bacteria, damaging the tooth structure and gum tissue. Plaque is a sticky substance that is constantly forming in the mouth. It builds up along teeth, between teeth, and around the gums.
Daily brushing and flossing are essential to reducing plaque and bacteria in the mouth and therefore preventing cavities. It is also important to limit snacking between meals, avoid sodas and candy, and drink plenty of water. Brushing and flossing daily removes these sugars and the bacteria that have begun to grow on our teeth and gums. You greatly reduce the risk of decay and cavities after every brushing.
However, even the most diligent oral hygiene routine can be hijacked by several factors:
- Teeth that have large or many crevices
- Acidic foods that attack the tooth enamel
- Certain medical conditions and medications that can affect gum health and cause dry mouth
- Poorly placed fillings or restorations that allow acid to build underneath and into the tooth structure
- Lifestyle habits including smoking and a diet high in sugar
Our modern diet and typical lifestyle make most of us prone to tooth decay to some degree. Our dentists can help you to minimize your personal risk with tips for keeping your mouth healthy so that you can enjoy your smile for as long as possible. You may benefit from additional dental cleanings, at-home oral care products, or a certain type of toothbrush.
Symptoms of Tooth Decay
The dentist is able to identify early signs of tooth decay before most patients experience any physical symptoms, so it is important to maintain regular dental check-ups. There are some signs that could indicate tooth decay including:
- White spots on teeth
- Dark or dull teeth
- Toothache
- Tooth sensitivity
- Visible holes in teeth
Tooth Cavity FAQs
How do cavities form?
Bacteria in plaque becomes activated by sugar and starch in the food we eat. The bacteria produce acid which erodes tooth enamel. Eroding tooth enamel can lead to the formation of a tooth cavity. Once a tooth cavity is formed, it will continue to get larger until it is filled, or your tooth is completely eaten away.
Can I fix a cavity at home?
No. Once a cavity is formed, you can not fix a cavity at home without help from a dentist and their tools. Cavities are not reversible. Currently, the only way to fix a cavity is to visit your dentist for a dental exam and cavity filling, which usually only requires a single visit.
Is it bad to have more than one cavity fillings?
No. It is not bad to have more than one cavity filled at a single appointment. Your dentist may recommend getting up to four filled at a time. The quicker you get your cavities filled, the closer you are to better dental health.
If you have tooth decay or tooth pain, schedule a visit with our dentists in Buford, GA today. Lanier Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is your dental home for preventative dental care for the whole family.
How many cavities is normal for one person?
The National Institute of Health states that 92% of adults have had cavities in their teeth. The average amount of cavities per person is 3.2 but this varies per individual.