Cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases that affect all ages. 1.5 million cases are reported in Nigeria each year. Dental cavities occur when acid in the mouth erodes tooth enamel, resulting in holes in the teeth. Cavities (also known as dental caries) that go untreated can cause toothaches, infection, and tooth extraction.
Tooth decay may be avoided with proper dental care, which includes brushing, flossing, and frequent dental examinations for cavities.
Who is at risk of developing a cavity?
Cavities can affect people of any age, although they are more frequent in youngsters, giving that they can not wash their teeth correctly and also eat and drink more sugary foods and beverages.
Cavities affect adults as well. New deterioration can form around the borders of cavities that were treated as a youngster. Gum recession is also more common in adults. Cavity-causing plaque is exposed to the bottom regions of the teeth in this scenario.
What are the different kinds of cavities?
All layers of a tooth can be affected by dental decay. A cavity in the strong outer layer of tooth enamel might take up to three years to emerge. Decay moves faster through the dentin (middle layer) to the pulp (innermost layer). The nerve terminals and blood supply of a tooth are found in the pulp. Tooth decay can take several forms, including:
Smooth surface: This cavity removes tooth enamel over time. Brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings can help prevent — and even reverse — gum disease. This type of tooth decay is very common among people in their twenties.
Pit and fissure decay: Cavities grow on the chewing surface of the tooth. The front side of rear teeth can also be affected by decay. Pit and fissure deterioration usually begins in adolescence and advances swiftly.
Root decay: is more common in older persons whose gums have receded. The tooth’s root is exposed to plaque and acid as a result of gum recession. It’s tough to prevent and treat root decay.
What creates cavities in the mouth?
Cavities emerge as a result of a variety of reasons. Typically, the following phases take place:
- Sugary, starchy meals and drinks provide sustenance for bacteria in the mouth (fruit, candy, bread, cereal, sodas, juice and milk). These carbohydrates are converted to acids by bacteria.
- Plaque is made up of bacteria, acid, food, and saliva. The teeth are coated with this sticky material.
- Acids in plaque degrade tooth enamel without adequate brushing and flossing, resulting in cavities or holes.
What are the symptoms of a cavity?
In most cases, tooth decay on the outer enamel surface causes no discomfort or symptoms. As decay develops into the dentin and root, you’re more likely to notice symptoms. Cavities can be identified by the following symptoms:
- A foul taste in the mouth or bad breath.
- Gum disease symptoms such as bleeding gums or other indicators of gum disease.
- Swelling of the face.
- It might be a toothache or a mouth ache.
- Intolerance to hot or cold meals or beverages.
- Redness in the mouth or around it.
What factors put you more at risk for cavities?
Cavity risk is increased by the following factors:
- Dry mouth is caused by conditions such as Sjogren’s syndrome or drugs such as antidepressants.
- Snacking on sweet, starchy foods or beverages in between meals.
- Cavities run in the family.
- Head and neck cancer has previously been treated with radiation treatment.
- Gums that are receding.
What is the procedure for detecting cavities?
Dental examinations are recommended twice a year to discover cavities early, when your dentist can salvage a large portion of the tooth. Your dentist will inspect your teeth using a variety of equipment. When your dentist probes a cavity-ridden tooth, it will feel softer. X-rays of your teeth may also be taken. Cavities are evident on X-rays before the degradation is noticeable.
How do you treat cavities?
Treatment is determined on the extent of tooth decay. Treatments for cavities include:
Fluoride: If dental decay is detected early enough, fluoride treatments can help to restore tooth enamel. This is referred to as remineralization. Prescription toothpaste and mouthwash, as well as fluoride treatments at the dentist’s office, may be required.
Fillings: When a hole appears in a tooth, the rotten material is drilled out and the hole is filled. Silver amalgam, composite resin, and gold are used in dental fillings.
A root canal is a procedure that relieves discomfort caused by root deterioration. Endodontists are dentists who specialize on disorders involving the root of a tooth. This healthcare worker removes the pulp, which includes nerve endings that produce pain, during a root canal.
Teeth extraction: If a root canal isn’t possible, your healthcare professional may have to remove (take) the tooth. A dental implant may be required to replace a missing permanent tooth. Implants prevent teeth from moving and affecting the way you look.
What can I do to avoid getting a cavity?
Plaque and acids that cause cavities may be removed with proper dental hygiene, which includes brushing and flossing on a regular basis. Taking care of your teeth and gums entails:
