How Do Cavities Develop?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cavities are more prevalent than you thought. Among adolescents between 12 to 19 years old, 57% have had a cavity, while 90% of adults older than 20 have at least one cavity. The only person authorized to treat cavities is a dentist in 33020. What are cavities, and how do they develop?  

Understanding Cavities  

What Are Cavities and How Do They Form?  

Cavities, also known as tooth decay or caries, are tiny, permanent craters that develop on the hard surface of your teeth due to dental plaque and oral bacteria. The bacteria, which are normally present in the mouth, produce acid that eats away at the enamel and dentin of the teeth, creating cavities.    

If left untreated, cavities can lead to tooth pain, infection, and even tooth loss. They are most commonly caused by poor oral hygiene and a diet high in sugar and other refined carbohydrates.  

How Do Dentists Treat Cavities?  

Dentists typically treat cavities by removing the decayed parts of the tooth and filling the area with a material such as composite resin, amalgam, or glass ionomer. The treatment depends on the size, severity, location of the cavity, and the patient's preferences.

• A dental filling is the most common treatment for cavities. The dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic and then use a drilling tool to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. The cleaned-out space is then filled with a material such as composite resin, amalgam, or glass ionomer.
• Inlays or onlays are used when a cavity is too large to be filled with a regular filling. They are custom-made in a dental laboratory, and your dentist cements them into the tooth.
• Crowns, or caps, are recommended when a cavity is too large that it threatens the structural integrity of the tooth. Your dentist will numb the area, remove the decay, and shape the remaining tooth to fit a crown. The artificial crown is then placed over the prepared tooth and cemented in place.

Looking for a Dentist in 33020?  

If you think you have cavities or your tooth is starting to hurt, we can examine your mouth and prepare a tailored treatment plan to restore your smile and oral function. At TLC Dental, we offer a wide range of restorative dental treatments that are easy on the budget. Contact us for a reservation.