When we talk about visiting a dentist, one of the main issues we aim to prevent is the well-known dental caries. This is because they are the leading causes of tooth pain worldwide, and they can also progress to really serious conditions if not treated properly. For this reason, in today’s text we will cover everything you need to know about dental caries. What they are, why they should be treated, and how these treatments work. Want to know more? Find out now!
What are Dental Caries? How do they develop?
Dental caries is a problem that occurs when there is a large buildup of bacterial plaque on our teeth. Certain types of foods, such as very acidic foods and especially sugars, cause these bacterial plaques to have a chemical reaction that makes it easier for them to attack the teeth, weakening the enamel and, consequently, creating a cavity. Certain types of caries tend to be more common in children due to the fact that they are still learning how to brush their teeth and often do not perform this task in the best way. In such cases, it is up to the parents to supervise and prevent problems like this from appearing. Bacteria that cause cavities can also be transmitted from one person to another, through kissing or even sharing cutlery and glasses, for example. Even so, if a person acquires this bacteria but has good oral hygiene, it is very unlikely that they will have issues in this regard.
How do caries develop?
Caries can basically develop in three ways. They are:
- On the Surface of the Teeth
- Between the Teeth
- At the Root of the Teeth
Let’s talk about how each of them occurs so that you have a better idea of how they are formed.
On the Surface of the Teeth
This may be the most common type of cavity and also the easiest to treat. It occurs on the surface—meaning the part of the teeth we use to bite. It happens more easily because this is exactly the area where most food sticks and tends to develop bacterial plaque if we don’t brush properly.
Between the Teeth
This type of cavity usually occurs when bacterial plaque accumulates in places that are harder to reach while brushing, which also makes it easier for it to grow. For this reason, using other means to clean your teeth such as dental floss and mouthwashes is so important for preventing any kind of problem from occurring.
At the Root of the Teeth
This type of cavity is more common in people with receded gums but can happen to anyone. Of all the types mentioned here, it is the most complicated to treat as it requires a much more delicate approach. It is also the type of cavity that usually causes the most pain. 
Symptoms of Cavities
Spotting a cavity is not a very difficult task, since it presents several quite characteristic symptoms, such as:
- Sharp pain in the tooth where the cavity is located
- Small holes in the decayed tooth
- Sensitivity in the decayed tooth
- White or brown stains on the affected tooth
- Swollen or even sore gums
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a dentist as soon as possible so you can begin treatment and prevent this type of problem from progressing to even more dangerous conditions, such as a root canal, for example.
Treatment for Cavities
There is only one known way to treat cavities, which is the well-known filling. The main goal of this procedure is to restore the tooth affected by a cavity back to normal. To do this, the dentist “opens” the tooth to reach the affected area. From this point on, a cleaning process begins, which can take more or less time depending on the severity of the cavity. After that, the dentist seals the tooth. This sealing can be done with various types of materials, ranging from a simple resin to even gold. However, it is very common for fillings to be done with porcelain for aesthetic reasons, as this material has a consistency and colors similar to our natural teeth. As we said before, the duration of a filling can vary depending on the cavity, but it usually takes less than an hour. If a person has many cavities, it is common to need several dental appointments to ensure all fillings are completed properly.
How to Prevent Cavities?
Although treatment exists, it is important to prevent cavities from developing, since they can cause pain and discomfort that interfere with our daily lives. To prevent this type of problem, some measures must be taken, such as:
- Brushing your teeth after every meal, upon waking up and before bed
- Using dental floss every day
- Using mouthwash
- Visiting the dentist at least once every 6 months
With these simple steps you can prevent cavities and, consequently, all the problems they can bring. Cavities are quite common problems, but they shouldn’t appear frequently in your life. Knowing how to prevent them is the best way to live a healthy life, eating what you like and enjoying life as you should. This is the most effective way to make sure this kind of problem never becomes a major issue in your life. After all, we all want to live well and with good oral health. See also: Newborn with a Tooth? – Why Does This Happen?
