The Dental Makeover

Dental cavities have been known to be identified by other aliases, such as caries and tooth decay.  Dental cavities, by definition, are holes in the teeth or structural damage to the teeth.  Bacteria in the mouth are used to transform sugary food particles into a substance called plaque.  Plaque can be formed by eating breads, milk, soda, sweets, and even some fruits.  If the teeth are not cleaned, the plaque sticks to the teeth.  The acids in plaque break down the outer protection of the teeth, enamel.  It takes less than half an hour for plaque to begin its assault on the teeth.  Over time, plaque will form into tartar, allowing the process of decay to flourish.

Symptoms of dental cavities include sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, toothaches, and visible holes.  Dental cavities that are spotted early can be treated, but the only way to spot dental cavities in their early stages is through a dental checkup.  Some dental cavities can only be identified through x-rays, as they may be below the gum line or too small for the eye to see.  Dental cavities treated early will minimize the pain and cost of dental cavities left untreated.

Treatment of dental cavities may include fillings, tooth crowns, and caps.  A filling is placed into the tooth after the dentist drills out the damaged area.  There is a variety of materials used to fill teeth damaged from dental cavities:  Gold, silver, and porcelain are some of the materials commonly used.  If the damage of dental cavities is more advanced, then the dentist will use a crown or a cap to replace the damaged areas on the teeth.  Dental cavities left untreated may result in a more painful process and cost more money.  A root canal is needed if the nerve in the tooth dies.  The tooth is drilled out to remove the dead portion, including the nerve.  The rest of the process is treated the same as a dental cavity.

If a toothache occurs, the best recommendation is to contact a dentist.  It is likely a dental cavity has begun the process of destroying the tooth.  Visit the dentist on a regular basis (twice per year), as frequent checkups will lead to less dental cavities.  Prevention is another means of minimizing the assault of dental cavities upon the teeth.  Brush immediately after eating snacks and sticky foods.  Fluoride is another means of preventing dental cavities.  It has been proven that individuals who drink fluoridated water or use a fluoride supplement have fewer dental cavities.