What is a Cavity?

A cavity is also known as dental caries or decay. They are caused but the sticky biofilm called plaque that is full of bacteria. Cavity-causing bacteria feed off of simple sugars that we eat and drink such as, bread, milk, candy, pop. They then turn them into acids that eat away at the enamel (outer layer of your teeth) and further into the tooth, until it is fixed by a dentist. This causes holes in your teeth creating cavities. You may not always know when you have a cavity, because not all of them cause pain in the beginning, it really depends on the severity of the decay. Some symptoms of tooth decay are

• Visible holes in the tooth

• Sweet sensitivity

• Cold or hot sensitivity

• A visible dark spot of the tooth

If decay is left untreated a number of issues could arise. The tooth may become painful over time, if the decay reaches deep into the nerve of the tooth it can cause the tooth to become abscessed and may need a root canal or to be extracted. If the decay gets into the bloodstream it can be very dangerous, the infection can travel to other parts of your body and can lead to sepsis.

How to prevent cavities?

1. Brush 2 times a day for a minimum of 2 minutes each time. Trying to reach all areas of the mouth

2. Floss or use a water flosser at least 1 time a day

3. Eat healthy nutritious food. And avoid sugary foods and drinks

4. Come for Regular cleanings and checkups with x-rays

5. Always be sure to change out your toothbrush or head on your electric brush every 3 months to ensure the bristles are still adequately removing the plaque off your teeth.