A general dentist can prevent, diagnose, and treat a variety of dental conditions and diseases including cavities. A cavity is basically a hole that forms in your tooth. Cavities start small and end up becoming bigger when they are not treated. Many cavities often do not cause pain in the beginning so it can be difficult to know that a problem exists. Fortunately, regular dental appointments can help a dentist to identify tooth decay early.
Cavities are common especially in kids, teens, and older adults. However, anyone with teeth can get cavities, including infants. The signs and symptoms of cavities vary depending on multiple factors. This may include their extent and location. Some common signs and symptoms include tooth pain, tooth sensitivity, and pain when chewing.
Although everyone is at risk of cavities, some individuals have a higher risk. Risk factors include not getting enough fluoride or poor oral hygiene. Consuming too many sugary or acidic drinks or foods is also problematic. Good oral and dental hygiene can help significantly to avoid cavities and tooth decay. It is advisable to brush the teeth at least two times daily and ideally after each meal, using fluoride-containing toothpaste.
People should clean between the teeth once a day with an interdental cleaner or floss. Visiting the dentist on a regular basis is always recommended. It can help not only to prevent cavities but also other oral problems. Professional dental cleanings and regular oral exams can also help to spot problems early. Other ways to prevent cavities include eating tooth-healthy foods or rinsing the mouth. Drinking water that contains fluoride and periodic fluoride treatments can also help.
Treatment of cavities depends on how severe they are and an individual’s specific situation. If a tooth cavity is detected in its early stage, a general dentist may suggest a fluoride treatment. This can help to restore the tooth’s enamel and prevent further decay. When decay has progressed beyond the earliest stage, a general dentist may recommend fillings. The dentist will remove the decayed material from the tooth using a drill. The tooth will then be filled with a substance like composite resin, gold, silver, or porcelain.
For more severe decay, a patient may need a crown. This custom-fit cap will be placed over the tooth to replace its natural crown. The decayed tooth material will be removed before starting this procedure. A root canal is ideal when decay reaches the inner material of the patient’s tooth. This treatment will help to repair and save the tooth rather than removing it. But teeth that are severely decayed and cannot be restored may have to be pulled.
Regular checkups can help to identify cavities and other dental conditions early. The sooner you seek care, the higher the chances of reversing the earliest stages of tooth decay. It will also help prevent its progression. To learn more about treating cavities, talk to your dentist today. Your dentist can determine the most appropriate treatment that is right for you.
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