One thing no one wants to hear at the dentist is that they have a cavity. A cavity almost always requires a filling, but without the filling, the decay would spread until you either needed a root canal or a complete tooth extraction. One thing that is commonly misunderstood is the causes of cavities. Many factors influence your likelihood to get cavities. In this article, we will cover the various causes of dental cavities. The best way to prevent and treat decay is to see your dentist twice a year. If you need a dentist in the Chicago area, give us a call!
How Do Cavities Form?
Dental cavities are formed by the process of dental decay. Bacteria in our mouth can erode the surface and other parts of our teeth. Bacteria mix with our foods and beverages to quickly eat away our teeth. At first, the enamel (the outermost layer) is dissolved through a process called demineralization. After that, the dentin is affected, and eventually, the decay can spread into the tooth pulp and the roots below the gums.
How Does Genetics Affect Cavities?
Genetics plays a role in the likelihood to get cavities. You may know friends who have never gotten cavities and friends who have gotten twice as many as you have. And while the most important factor in preventing cavities is oral care. The odds of getting cavities can be impacted by factors outside of our control. For example, the shape of a tooth can make it easier for food and beverages to impact the tooth. Back molars are usually more likely to form cavities because of how frequently things get stuck back there. Aside from the shape and geometry of a tooth, the strength of teeth can also vary. Some people are born with stronger teeth than others. Fluoride treatments and special fluoride toothpaste and boost the strength of your teeth.
How Can I Prevent Cavities?
Preventing cavities comes down to understanding how cavities form and how to interrupt that process. The most important thing you can do is see a dentist. The more often you see a dentist, the less time dental decay and bacteria have to go unchecked. Cavities take time to form and spread. At first, a cavity might simply be a sign of erosion near the enamel, and it might fixable without a filling. Once the cavity spreads to the dentin a filling will be needed. If the decay goes to the root a root canal might be needed. And if the decay is severe, a tooth replacement and extraction might be necessary.
Aside from seeing your dentist, you should also take care of your teeth every day. If food and other debris stay in your mouth for hours, it will erode your teeth. Brushing and flossing every day, especially before bed, can make sure your teeth are protected.
Family Dentist in Chicago
If you need to see a family dentist in the Chicago area, please give us a call. We have 10 locations throughout Chicago that serve patients and families.