Written by Dr. Ammar Houssein, DDS.

Cavities—just the word can make you cringe, but understanding them is the first step to keeping them at bay. Tooth decay is reported to be one of the oldest and most common diseases worldwide. According to the most recent National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, nearly 90% of American adults have had decay in their teeth. Cavities are a common dental issue, but the good news is they’re entirely preventable. By learning what causes cavities and how to prevent them, you can protect your smile and maintain your dental health. Let’s dive into why cavities happen and what you can do to avoid them. 

What Are Cavities?

Cavities are essentially holes in your teeth. They form when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—builds up on your teeth and generates acids that wear away your enamel over time until a cavity forms. You might notice signs like tooth sensitivity, pain, or visible pits in your teeth. Spotting these signs early on can help you get treatment before things get worse.

What Causes Cavities?

Cavities develop when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and starches from your food, producing acids that attack your teeth. Here are some common factors that contribute to cavity formation.

Poor Dental Hygiene

Inconsistent brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up, increasing the risk of cavities. If left unchecked, plaque hardens into tartar, which requires professional cleaning by a dentist to remove. Tartar buildup can further contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.

Dietary Habits

Regularly consuming sugary and acidic foods and drinks provides more fuel for harmful bacteria, speeding up the decay process. Snacks like candy, soda, energy drinks, and fruit juices can be particularly detrimental if consumed often without proper dental care.

Other Risk Factors

Several additional factors can heighten your risk of developing cavities. These include dry mouth, which reduces the saliva that helps cleanse your mouth and neutralize acids, certain medications, and irregular dental visits. Tooth decay is also more common in people who currently smoke compared with those who never or formerly smoked.

How Do You Prevent Cavities

Preventing cavities is simpler than you might think. Here are some practical tips for keeping your teeth clean and cavity-free:

• Brushing and Flossing: Make it a habit to brush twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
• Use Fluoride Toothpaste: Fluoride treatments and toothpaste are great for strengthening your enamel and preventing decay.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks. Instead, incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and dairy products into your diet.
• Schedule Routine Dental Visits: Your dentist can spot early signs of cavities and help keep your teeth healthy. A good rule of thumb is to go for routine cleanings once every six months. Learn more about what to expect during your dental cleaning.

Treating Cavities: What to Expect

If you have a cavity, don’t stress. Treating it is straightforward and usually quick. Before any procedure begins, your dentist will examine your teeth, often using X-rays to see the extent of the decay. When it comes to treatment, there are a few different options:

• Fillings: Tooth fillings are the most common treatment where a dentist removes the decayed material and fills in the cavity. It’s a simple procedure that typically takes only one visit. 
• Crowns: Used for larger cavities or weakened teeth, crowns cover and protect the damaged tooth. This procedure typically happens over the course of a few visits. 
• Root Canals: Necessary when decay reaches the tooth’s pulp or nerve, root canals save and restore the tooth. While this sounds daunting, it’s a common procedure that alleviates pain and prevents further damage.
• Other Restorative Procedures: Depending on the situation, other treatments might be needed to ensure your oral health,  including tooth extractions in severe cases. We’ll talk to you about options for replacing your missing tooth including an implant, bridge or partial denture.

Each treatment is designed to restore your tooth’s function and health. Modern dentistry makes these procedures more comfortable and efficient than ever before.

Your Smile’s Best Defence Against Cavities Starts Here

Cavities are common, but they’re preventable with the right habits. Embrace good dental hygiene practices, maintain a healthy diet, and don’t skip your dental check-ups. At My Community Dental Centers, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Ready to take control of your dental health? Schedule routine dental visits and appointments for cavity treatment with our staff today.

Your smile deserves the best care, and we’re here to help you achieve it—without any stress.