The teeth are one of the most important parts of the body. They help a person chew, speak, and smile. They protect gums from bacteria and help hold the mouth together.
If one doesn’t care for them, they can start to decay. When that happens, it’s not just about snacking on fewer sweets—it’s about ensuring healthy teeth for life!
This article will cover how cavities form, how to avoid them, and how to reverse tooth decay.
How Does a Cavity Form?
Cavities form when the teeth are exposed to acids produced by oral bacteria. The minerals in the teeth deteriorate over time due to repeated exposure to these acidic byproducts. These are the five stages of tooth decay that lead to the formation of a cavity:
– Stage 1: Demineralization occurs when the enamel is exposed to acids produced by bacteria as they interact with sugars and starches.
– Stage 2: Enamel decay is the stage of tooth decay in which holes (cavities) can form.
– Stage 3: Dentin decay is the stage at which decay has reached the soft tissue beneath the enamel. The cavity will almost certainly be painful at this stage of decay.
– Stage 4: Pulp decay is the final, major stage of decay when the cavity has reached the pulp. This region contains the nerves and blood vessels of the tooth. The decay is characterized by more severe inflammation.
– Stage 5: Abscesses can form when bacteria in the cavity spread beneath the pulp and form a pus pocket.
Can a Cavity Be Reversed?
A cavity can usually be reversed if caught early in the demineralization process.
Good oral hygiene is essential during this stage for restoring the minerals in your teeth and preventing decay. This includes brushing and flossing regularly, as well as regular exposure to fluoride, a mineral that helps strengthen the enamel of the teeth.
Cavities can’t always be avoided. In these cases, cavity treatment is determined by how deep the tooth decay has progressed. Cavity treatment options may include:
– Fillings: Smaller cavities are filled with a resin or composite filling.
– Inlays or onlays: Inlays and onlays are used to fill cavities too large for a standard filling.
– Crowns: When a cavity affects a larger portion of the tooth, a metal or porcelain crown may be required.
– Root canals: A root canal procedure involves inserting filling material into the tooth’s pulp. When the pulp becomes damaged or infected, root canals are used.
– Extractions: When tooth decay can’t be treated any longer, tooth extraction is performed.
How Can One Prevent a Cavity?
Even though tooth decay can be reversed, maintaining good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent a cavity from forming.
Here are some of the most important oral hygiene steps one can take:
– Brush teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
– Floss once a day to prevent plaque buildup between the teeth.
– Increase fluoride exposure by drinking fluoridated water and using fluoride-containing products.
– Limit the intake of highly sugary or starchy foods. These are the foods that cause the most tooth decay.
– Visit the dentist at least once every six months for a cleaning or more frequently if the dentist recommends it.
