What are cavities?

Cavities are damaged areas in the enamel of your teeth.  They are more typically found in children and young adults; however, anyone can be susceptible to them if proper dental care is not practiced.  

When you come to the most trusted dentist Downingtown residents frequent, we will ensure that your teeth are handled with care.

Why are they a problem?

Normally the damage of a cavity exists in the outer hard layer of the tooth, the enamel.  But if left untreated, the damage and decay can travel to the second layer of your tooth, the dentin.  In some bad cases the infection will also reach the pulp, which is the inner part of the tooth.

Large cavities can cause irritations and discomfort in the form of:

• toothache
• sensitivity to heat, cold, and sweets
• pain when biting down
• visible holes or black spots on teeth

Untreated cavities also have the potential to lead to more serious gum issues, such as gingivitis.

How do they form?

There are two main contributing factors for the formation of cavities-bad diet and the lack of proper dental care.

A diet high in processed foods, sweets, and sugary drinks will deposit a greater amount of bacteria on your teeth.  The presence of this bacteria, food particles and naturally occurring acid combine to form plaque that adheres to the tooth.  The plaque, if not removed properly, will gradually eat away at your tooth’s enamel, thus beginning a cavity.

While an increase in healthful eating will help lesson tooth decay, no amount of diet will prevent the decay if you are not properly caring for your teeth.  When you come to the most trusted dentist Downingtown offers, you can be sure that your teeth will receive excellent care and top-notch cleaning.

How are cavities treated?

• Fillings and Crowns
  For a filling, your dentist will remove the damaged part of the tooth and fill it with another substance. There are a variety of materials used for this, including metal or porcelain.
  Crowns are similar to a filling, but on a larger level.  They generally consist of a “cap” or crown over the top of a decayed tooth after the damaged part has been removed.

• Root Canal and Extractions
  A root canal is employed when the tooth damage has reached a more serious level.  In a root canal, the dentist will remove the damaged nerve and replace with a filling.
  In some more serious cases, the tooth is beyond saving and an extraction will be performed.

How can I prevent cavities?

• Avoid sugary and processed foods
• Brush at least twice a day
• If possible, brush after every meal
• Floss regularly to remove food stuck in between teeth or gums
• Schedule a regular cleaning every 6 months with the most trusted dentist Downingtown has seen

If you’re experiencing an annoying dull toothache, sensitivity to temperatures, or searing pain when biting, you may need to come visit the most trusted dentist Downingtown has ever seen.  We treat you like family and treat your teeth even better!

Call us today at 610-431-0600 to set up your next dental check-up.

Most Trusted Dentist Downingtown | Most Trusted Dentist in Downingtown