What Are Cavities?

Most of us at one point thought we had a cavity only to realize it was just a piece of stubborn food stuck in our teeth. How can you know you have a cavity if you don’t know what it actually looks or feels like? That is the issue we are going to try to address today.

How are Cavities Formed?

The human mouth is loaded with bacteria… some of it healthy, some not. When a person eats foods that are packed with sugar, such as soda or candy, the bacteria in the mouth feeds on those substances, which produces an acid. The acid that is produced from these types of foods can and will erode the enamel on your teeth, unless of course you clean it off quickly enough. If not, erosion begins and a cavity can form.

Even at the early stages, though, it is not too late. By brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, you can reverse the tooth decay. Mind you, we are talking very early stages here.

Signs a Cavity is Forming

In the early stages of a cavity, it is unlikely you will actually notice anything. As it progresses, however, you may start to feel some sensitivity in the tooth, especially when eating sweeter foods as well as food and drink that is on the extreme ends of hot and cold. You will feel this pain because outer layer of the tooth starts to erode, exposing the softer tissue and the nerve.

If the cavity progresses, you may eventually see signs, but by then your options are going to be limited in what you can do. For instance, a small hole may be present or you will see a black, white, or brown discoloration on the surface of the tooth in the location of the cavity.

Why Avoid Sweet Foods?

Sweet foods are sticky by nature. That stickiness is what causes those sugars to stick on your teeth and if they are not washed off right away, they can cause erosion. This is why we recommend using sugarless chewing gum as well as sugar free foods and drinks whenever possible. If you do consume these types of foods, it is always best to at the very least wash your mouth with water if you unable to brush your teeth after a meal.

Time to See a Dentist?

If you even suspect you are having problems, we recommend you get to your dentist right away. In the meantime, you should be brushing with a fluoride toothpaste as well as rinsing your mouth thoroughly after meals.

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