Having a healthy smile is an essential part of both your physical health and self confidence. By making regular visits to the dentist , you will ensure that your teeth are healthy and in good shape. In the event that you experience the signs of a cavity, you should be sure to visit an office offering family dental near Schaumburg. Your dentist can help alleviate your tooth pain, and can also provide additional support to prevent gum disease and other oral health issues. If you are preparing for a trip to the dentist, here is a guide to the basics that every patient should know about cavities.
Signs and Symptoms
There are several signs and symptoms that may indicate that you have a cavity. The symptoms of a cavity can vary depending on the severity of the issue, as well as the location of the cavity in the mouth. Some of the most common signs of a cavity include pain in one or more teeth, tooth sensitivity, or pain during eating and drinking.
Causes
Cavities form when a tooth begins to decay. The primary cause of cavity is due to a substance called plaque. When plaque forms around your teeth, the bacteria that are present in plaque will begin to eat away at the enamel of your teeth. Over time, this process can create cavities, which are holes. Plaque can build up due to poor oral hygiene practices, or can be a natural occurrence due to the structure of your teeth.
Treatment
There are several techniques that dentists can use to treat cavities. If a cavity is very minor, it may be able to remove the damage using a fluoride rinse. More severe cavities may require that your dentist perform a filling procedure. During the filling, your dentist will remove the damaged area of your tooth and fill the area with a new material. Very serious cavities can also be treated with other procedures, such as crowns or root canals.