Cavities Specialist

What are cavities?

Cavities are small holes that develop in your teeth as a result of decay. When cavities form on your teeth, they become hotbeds for bacteria. Bacteria can seep inside your teeth through cavities and threaten the structure of your teeth, causing decay and eventual tooth loss.

If you have a cavity, it’s best to treat it right away. The problem is, it’s not always easy to know if you have a cavity, since they don’t always have symptoms. By maintaining regular checkups, the team at Comprehensive Family Dentistry can catch cavities early when they’re easier to treat.

What causes cavities?

The most common cause of cavities is poor oral hygiene. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, or if you put off your cleanings, you may develop cavities.

Other factors can also lead to developing cavities, such as a high-sugar diet. This is especially true for younger patients. Children and teenagers are more prone to getting cavities than adults.

How can I prevent getting cavities?

You can help prevent getting cavities by practicing good oral hygiene. That means brushing and flossing at least twice a day and coming in twice a year for professional cleanings.

You should also try to eat foods that are healthy, such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Furthermore, you should limit your intake of sugar. Avoid sugary drinks, especially soda, and drink plenty of water instead.

How are cavities treated?

The team at Comprehensive Family Dentistry typically treats cavities with fillings. This is one of the most effective and conservative techniques used to address cavities.

Getting a filling is very simple. All fillings at Comprehensive Family Dentistry are made of high-quality materials. Most fillings are made of composite resin, which is tooth-colored and malleable like putty. Your dentist will drill out the decayed portion of your tooth and fill it with the resin. Then your dentist will harden the resin with a special laser light.

Once the filling hardens, your dentist will make any final adjustments to ensure a proper bite. The filling will look, feel, and function just like a natural tooth.

To learn more about fillings, book an appointment online or over the phone with Comprehensive Family Dentistry today.