So, you have a cavity…now what?
Are you experiencing mild or even sharp pain when you eat and drink something hot, cold or sweet? Perhaps you have a visible hole in your tooth or brown to black staining on the surface of your tooth. In that case, it’s possible that you could have a cavity. Don’t panic! In this blog, we talk you through the facts about cavities, what to do if you think you have one, and the best ways to prevent them in the future.
What are cavities?
A cavity is permanent damage on the hard surface of your tooth that creates small but troublesome openings or holes, which can expose the tooth’s nerves causing sensitivity and pain. Cavities are also known as tooth decay or caries.
How are cavities caused?
Cavities are caused by a combination of factors, including infrequent brushing or flossing, snacking on too many sugary foods or drinks, and is generally triggered by an overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth, which is left to cause havoc on the tooth’s enamel.
Can a cavity go away on its own?
Cavities do not go away on their own and require professional intervention to stop the cavity from growing larger and causing more pain and even tooth loss in the worst-case scenario.
How does a dentist fix cavities?
If you believe you have a cavity or have been told that you require treatment for a cavity, make sure to visit the dental professionals at Sarum Dental Practice in Salisbury. Our friendly dentists will be able to assess the health of your troubled tooth and, if needed, will provide you with a filling to treat the affected area. We practice a gentle approach to dentistry, so having your filling treatment will not cause you pain or discomfort.
At our dental practice in Wiltshire, we offer white filling treatment, which uses an aesthetic tooth-coloured composite to treat your cavity and provide strength and flexibility comparative to traditional amalgam fillings. If you’d like to find out more about white fillings at Sarum Dental, click here.
Wondering how to prevent cavities from forming? Here’s how:
- Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Don’t forget to floss!
- Avoid snacking on sugary snacks and drinks between meals
- Visit your local dentist in Wiltshire for a regular check-up and hygiene appointment