Things We Should Know About Cavity

We’ve been warned not eat too much sugar since we were children. As the sugary food is at risk of tooth decay and cavities. And kids get cavities more often than adults.

What’s cavity?

Cavity is a hole that forms when the hard outer layers of the tooth are broken down by acid. Cavities develop when bacteria inside the mouth produce acids that erode the hard enamel surface of the tooth. Over time, cavities can extend further info deeper layer of the tooth, which causes pain.

The signs and symptoms of cavity

Cavities are symptom of tooth decay, which can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss. Most of us can get them, so never ignore the signals they give us. Here we conclude some cavity processes you may experience:

• White spots on the surface of tooth(early tooth decay)
• Brown or black spots on the surface of the tooth(developing tooth decay)
• Visible holes or dents in the tooth enamel
• Sensitivity or toothache in the area of the cavity
• Generalized toothache or jaw pain
• Sharp pain when biting down

Causes of a cavity:

At the white spots stage, it’s possible to halt a cavity before it needs a filling. Theses spots are caused by demineralization. When the oral pH drops below 5.5 plaque formation begins to develop. Low plaque resides a bacterium that produces acids. These acids dissolve minerals in the tooth forming weak spots just below the surface of the enamel. This process is known as demineralization.

Prevention for tooth cavity:

Fluoride is an significant element in the treatment of the cavity. Remineralization is the healing process which occurs only in the absence of an acidic environment. The minerals are re-deposited in the demineralized area on the tooth surface. Besides, this process is depending on the protective factors of saliva and the action of fluoride ion. Fluoride abundant saliva inhibits the demineralization and interfering with the enzymatic requirements of bacteria.

Here are some suggestions to prevent cavity:

• Regular brushing: Bushing teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
• Regular flossing: Using dental floss/water floss to clean between teeth each day
• Regular dental examination: Attend dental check-ups, and visit oral hygienist regularly, as the dentist can help you identify early cavities and improve oral health
• Limit or avoid sugary snacks and drinks.

Cavity is a common dental problem among both children and adults. Regular brushing and flossing help remove plaques, which saliva can neutralize and wash away acids. All the prevention actions are helpful to teeth remineralize and repair damaged enamel before a cavity forms.