🦷 Cavities (Dental Caries)
Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are damaged areas on the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny holes or openings. They are one of the most common dental problems worldwide.
🧬 Causes:
- Caused by acid-producing bacteria (like Streptococcus mutans) that live in dental plaque
- These bacteria feed on sugars and starches from food and drinks, producing acids that erode tooth enamel
- Poor oral hygiene, frequent snacking, sugary diets, and dry mouth increase risk
🩺 Symptoms:
- Toothache or spontaneous pain
- Sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold foods and drinks
- Visible holes or pits in teeth
- Brown, black, or white staining on tooth surface
- Bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
🔍 Diagnosis:
- Dental examination by a dentist
- Use of dental instruments to detect soft spots
- X-rays to identify hidden decay between teeth or under fillings
💊 Treatment:
- Early cavities:
- Fluoride treatments to help remineralize enamel
- Moderate to advanced cavities:
- Removal of decayed tissue and filling with materials like composite resin, amalgam, or glass ionomer
- Severe decay:
- Crowns or root canal treatment if decay reaches the pulp
- Tooth extraction in extreme cases
🧼 Prevention:
- Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste (twice daily)
- Flossing daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Reduce intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Regular dental check-ups and cleanings
- Use of dental sealants in children to protect molars