What Causes Cavities?
Your mouth naturally contains bacteria. When you eat foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches), the bacteria feed on these and produce acid. This acid combines with bacteria, food particles, and saliva to form a sticky substance called plaque that coats your teeth.
Over time, the acids in plaque dissolve the hard outer enamel of your teeth, creating holes - these are cavities. Without treatment, cavities can grow larger and affect deeper layers of the tooth.
Who Gets Cavities?
Cavities are not just a childhood problem. Adults get them too. Several factors increase your risk as you age:
- Gum recession - as gums pull back, the exposed root surface is softer and more vulnerable to decay
- Old fillings - decay can form around the edges of older fillings that have weakened or cracked
- Dry mouth - certain medications reduce saliva flow, which normally helps wash away food and neutralize acid
- Sugar cravings and snacking between meals
How Do I Know If I Have a Cavity?
The best way to find cavities is through regular dental checkups. Your dentist can spot cavities during an exam and confirm them with X-rays. You may also notice:
- A toothache, especially when eating something sweet, hot, or cold
- Visible pits or holes in your teeth
- Staining on the surface of a tooth (brown, black, or white spots)
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on how far the cavity has progressed.
Fillings
The most common treatment. Your dentist removes the decayed material and fills the hole with amalgam, composite resin, gold, or porcelain.
Crowns
When decay is extensive and limited tooth structure remains, a crown (cap) may be placed to restore shape and strength.
Root Canals
If decay reaches the nerve and it dies, a root canal removes the damaged tissue and seals the tooth.
About Amalgam Fillings
Dental amalgam has been used for over 150 years and is one of the most thoroughly researched filling materials. Both the American Dental Association (ADA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) support its use as a safe, durable filling material.
Allergic reactions to amalgam are very rare. If you have concerns about filling materials, talk to your dentist about the options available for your specific situation.
New Developments in Cavity Treatment
Dental research continues to advance. Some exciting developments include:
- Early detection techniques that can identify cavities before they become visible, potentially allowing them to be reversed with fluoride treatment
- "Smart fillings" that release fluoride and other minerals over time to help prevent further decay around the filling
Regular dental visits remain the best way to catch problems early when they are easiest (and least expensive) to treat.
Related Topics
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