What Happens When You Have a Cavity

Most people have heard of cavities, and may have even had a few, but they might not understand exactly what causes them or how they’re treated. At Jacaranda Smiles, we aim not only to maintain oral health, but to educate the patients of Plantation and Pembroke, FL on how to take care of their teeth and gums.

What is a cavity?

A cavity is basically decay in the tooth. Early stages of the development of a cavity may not be noticeable, but as it grows, you may start to notice:

• A toothache or a dull pain
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Visible holes in the teeth

How do you get a cavity?

Plaque is a sticky film that continually forms in the mouth. It is comprised of leftover food particles and saliva in the mouth and it contains bacteria that produce harmful acids. When good oral hygiene habits (brushing and flossing) aren’t kept, plaque builds up, the acids eat away at tooth enamel, and cavities form in the teeth.

The best way to prevent cavities is to regularly clean the teeth with daily brushing and flossing to remove plaque from the teeth. Regular visits to the dentist for dental cleanings are also important for maintaining oral health.

What options do I have for repairing a cavity?

There are three main treatments for cavities.

• Filling: removes decay from the tooth and fills it in with a composite resin; this method prevents minor to moderate tooth decay from getting worse.
• Crown: also called a “cap” because it completely covers a tooth. A crown is used when a cavity has grown too large – when the decay is removed, there is not enough tooth remaining to be repaired with a filling and must be restored with a prosthetic.
• Tooth removal: usually a last resort; an extraction is only used when a filling or crown cannot be used to save a tooth.

The treatment chosen to repair a cavity will depend on a patient’s needs, the extent of the decay, and the location of the cavity. Your dentist at Jacaranda Smiles will be able to examine the tooth, assess the decay, and determine the best cavity treatment for you. The professionals at Jacaranda Smiles are experienced in treating children’s teeth and aim to provide quality treatments to the patients of Plantation and Pembroke, FL.