If you've ever had a cavity, you know that cavity treatment is crucial to fighting the pain and inconvenience that accompanies the pesky holes in your teeth. Untreated cavities can lead to infections and toothache, causing pain, bad breath, and tooth sensitivity; however, timely treatment can help mitigate these issues and help you avoid painful infections and procedures.
Before we dive into the types of treatment (and the urgency of receiving timely treatment), let's look at the types and causes of cavities.
As stated above, a cavity is a hole in your tooth caused primarily by tooth decay that stems from acid in the mouth wearing down or eroding your tooth's enamel. Lack of proper brushing and flossing is the main cause of the acid that has the power to wear down your enamel.
Pit and fissure cavities are most found on rear molars on the chewing surface of the tooth. Due to the chewing function of these molars, it's common for food to set in this area which can lead to plaque build-up resulting in cavities that typically spread quickly.
Root cavities occur on the surface of your tooth's root and are most common in older adults who have receding gums, which causes the tooth's root to become more exposed to the plaque and acid that causes cavities. For these reasons, root cavities are often hard to prevent and treat.
Smooth surface cavities are typically the slowest to develop and are caused by decaying tooth enamel. The main cause of smooth surface cavities is poor oral hygiene, and well not always possible; proper brushing and flossing can help treat and prevent this type of cavity.
While the types and causes of cavities can vary, timely cavity treatment is essential to avoid expensive and painful treatment. When not properly treated, cavities can lead to infections and severe mouth pain. There are various ways to treat cavities based on the type and the guidance of your dentist. The most common treatment for moderate cavities is fillings, which involves drilling into the tooth and filling the hole in your tooth to restore the strength of your tooth. For more severe cavities, crowns are likely the best option and involve cover the tooth with a porcelain or alloy crown. As a last resort, your dentist may recommend a root canal or full tooth extraction. A root canal includes removing damaged nerves, blood vessels, and tissue around the infected tooth, while an extraction requires the full removal of your tooth.
Cavities only worsen with time, and swift, appropriate action is key to avoiding drastic measures and painful procedures that could potentially end in extraction. Your family dentist can help ensure that you have the options you need to avoid cavities and to treat them quickly if they develop.
Request an appointment here: https://www.korsmofamilydental.com or call Korsmo Family Dental at (253) 336-0016 for an appointment in our Tacoma office.
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