Cavities are one of the most common restorative dentistry concerns. For Dr. Matthew Bridges, the first goal is to prevent dental decay in the first place. Nevertheless, if you do develop a cavity, we are ready to answer your questions and provide the outstanding care that you need.
Concerned that you have a cavity and looking for more information? Read on to learn the answers to some common questions about dental caries. Then contact us right away for the potentially tooth-saving treatment that you need.
What do cavities look like?
A cavity will change in appearance over time. Often, it will start out as a white spot, a sign that your tooth is being stripped of important minerals. As decay worsens, the white area may change to a brown or black spot. In more advanced cases, you may even see a small hole in the surface of your tooth.
Frequently, however, cavities are not visible. Many times, they are located inside of teeth where only a dental x-ray can reveal them. Other times, they may be situated between teeth where they are nearly impossible to see.
This is why it is so important to schedule your routine dental visits. Biannual cleanings will remove the bacteria, plaque, and tartar that cause cavities. Plus, your dentist can routinely screen for decay before it causes significant discomfort or damages the overall structure of your teeth.
Do cavities cause bad breath?
They can. The American Dental Association® warns that cavities harbor bacteria in areas where they cannot be removed by brushing and flossing. Thus, dental decay is a frequent cause of halitosis, or chronic bad breath.
Are cavities common for kids?
While we would like to think of dental caries as an adult problem, the fact is that tooth decay is incredibly common in young children. In fact, 42% of children between the ages of 2 and 11 have sustained at least one cavity in their baby teeth.
Fortunately, appropriate children’s dental care can greatly reduce the risk of cavities. From birth, parents should begin wiping down their children’s gums after eating. Once the first tooth erupts, they should begin brushing. Schedule your child’s first dental visit when their first tooth appears or around their first birthday.
Of course, good dental care continues throughout childhood. Children should learn good oral hygiene, brushing twice daily and flossing at least once every day. They should continue to visit the dentist every six months for an exam and cleaning. And they should eat a healthy diet, limiting their intake of sugar, juices, and refined carbohydrates.
Are cavities contagious?
Cavities are caused by bacteria, most commonly streptococcus mutans. Just like any microbes, oral bacteria can spread from person to person. Unfortunately, tooth decay is most likely to spread from adults to children since children have not yet built an immunity to oral microbes. For example, mothers will often share eating utensils with their children or test their food to make sure it is not too hot. This is an easy way to transmit cavity-causing bacteria.
How do you treat a cavity?
Dental fillings are the most common treatment for a cavity. Dr. Bridges offers several types of fillings, including lifelike composite. This durable material comes in various tooth-colored shades, so he can easily find a filling that blends naturally with your tooth.
When undiagnosed decay spreads, you may require a more extensive treatment. If the cavity is too large for a filling, a dental crown can often reinforce the tooth and restore functionality. In cases where bacteria have spread to the dental roots, you may require root canal therapy. Dr. Bridges will carefully assess your tooth and provide the most effective and conservative treatment possible.
Learn More about Cavities and Our Restorative Options
Still have questions about tooth decay or looking for outstanding dental care? Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today. Reach us via our online form or give us a call at 580-255-4880. We see patients from Duncan, OK, and the surrounding area.
