Cavities permanently damage your teeth. They turn the hard surface into small gaps or holes. Cavities are also called tooth decay or caries. They are caused by different factors, including germs and bacteria in your mouth, frequent munching, sugary drinks, and failure to clean your teeth properly.
Dental cavities and tooth decay are among the most frequent health issues worldwide. They are most frequent among children, teens, and the elderly. Cavities, however, may affect anybody’s health that has teeth, even newborns.
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ToggleWhen Americans are in their mid-30s, over 80% have had a cavity at least once. In addition, dental cavities are one of the most frequent chronic disorders hurting people of all ages.
Tooth decay can damage all tooth layers. A cavity in the tough outer layer of the tooth, enamel, can take up to three years to emerge. After that, decay moves faster through the dentin, or middle layer, to the pulp, or innermost layer. The pulp of a tooth includes the nerve endings and blood vessels. The following are examples of tooth decay:
The degree of decay determines the symptoms of a cavity. They are as follows:
Plaque, a sticky material that attaches to teeth, causes tooth decay. Plaque is a mash-up of:
Everyone’s mouth contains germs and bacteria. Bacteria in your mouth convert sugar into acid after you eat or drink sugary foods. When you consume anything sweet, plaque starts to build on your teeth. This is why it is essential to brush your teeth frequently.
Your teeth are covered by plaque, and the acid in plaque can wear away the enamel over time. The enamel on your teeth protects the inner layer from decay by acting as a shield. The danger of rotting grows when your tooth enamel deteriorates.
There are varying degrees of susceptibility to cavities among people. The following are risk factors:
Cavities are more common in the back teeth. Grooves and holes in molar teeth can capture food particles. Furthermore, these teeth might be difficult to reach when cleaning and flossing.
Dental checks twice a year are the most excellent method to catch cavities early when your dentist can preserve most of your tooth. Your dentist will inspect your teeth using a variety of equipment. When your dentist probes a cavity-ridden tooth, it will feel softer. Dental X-rays may also be taken. X-rays reveal cavities before damage is evident.
Let’s Talk about how to Freeze Cavities with Dr. Foroughi at Atrium Dental in Phoenix, Arizona.
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is the most non-invasive method and the latest innovation in the NO-NEEDLE Tooth cavity treatment. Our adult and pediatric patients have been cheering this method at Atrium Dental for years.
SDF has been widely used in Europe, the Middle East, and New Zealand for over a decade. In 2015 FDA approved this material for caries management in the United States, and it has been playing a main role in pediatric caries management since then.
Caries or Cavities are the soft structure of the tooth caused by the by-product of sugar decomposition in the mouth. SDF is an element with a high affinity for such soft structures and seats in the area, sealing off the compromised structure like a shield.
Sealing off the soft tooth structure arrests the cavity and freezes the area into its current state, preventing the progression and deepening of caries.
The deeper layers of your teeth are damaged when you don’t treat cavities. They can cause severe dental pain, infection, and tooth loss. Regular dental appointments with your dentist and proper brushing and flossing routines are the best way to prevent cavities and tooth decay.
You may be completely unaware that a cavity is growing. That is why, even though your mouth feels good, it is essential to get frequent dental examinations and cleanings. However, you should see your dentist immediately if you have a toothache or oral discomfort.
If you see or experience any of the following symptoms, you should contact your doctor:
Tooth cavity prevention starts with you! It is time to learn how to reduce the risk of having tooth decay by doing the following:
The following food types can aid in the prevention of tooth decay:
Also, remember to visit your dentist at least twice a year for regular dental check-ups and cleanings. This allows you to receive treatment for any concerns discovered by your dentist and assist in avoiding future dental problems.
Dr. Foroughi at Atrium Dental in Phoenix, Arizona, supports this conservative and non-invasive method. He understands SDF is only for some cases. Dr. Foroughi has been using SDF widely for baby teeth instead of traditional restorations for kids. Please call for a consultation to see if you or your children are good candidates for SDF. Atrium Dental 480.940.4321