Struggling With Teeth Cavities? Here’s What You Need Know

Teeth cavities are a common dental problem. It’s essential to know the causes and what you can do to prevent them from happening in the first place. Many people don’t realize that there are different types of tooth decay, some of which require more severe treatment than others. Knowing this information will help you decide how best to protect your teeth and avoid issues later down the road. In Old Bridge, New Jersey, there are cavities specialists you can approach. They’ll do a proper evaluation of the cavities before proceeding with the treatment. Look for the best expert in cavities and fillings in Old Bridge, NJ, for quality services.

What is a Cavity, and How Does it Form?

Teeth are composed of three layers: the outer layer (enamel), the middle layer (dentin), and an inner layer (pulp). When you eat or drink foods that contain sugars, bacteria in your mouth react to this food by producing acids. Over time, these acids erode the enamel and dentin, leading to tooth decay. The pulp, however, contains blood vessels and sensory nerves. Once the enamel is breached, these degrade too without proper treatment. This can lead to pain or discomfort in your mouth.

If you do not receive the necessary dental care at this point, severe problems may occur down the road. The bacteria that are left behind will begin to break down the pulp. This is when the pain comes in, but more will occur if this decay can progress even further.

What Types of Cavities Are There?

Each of the different types of cavities has its unique characteristics and treatment plans. Here is a breakdown of what each type entails:

Non-cavitated lesions: This is when tooth decay occurs, but there is no cavity formed yet; Non-carious cervical lesions (NCCL) -This term refers to any decalcification of the tooth’s outermost layer, with no cavitation. They can’t be detected by a dental x-ray and appear grey or white; white spot lesions are small areas where decalcification has occurred. The most common cause is excessive consumption of acidic foods and drinks over an extended period.

Secondary caries occur when the decay is located near a restoration (i.e., filling or crown). The bacteria that cause cavities can remain in this area and erode the tooth. This is after a filling has been placed. Large cavitated lesions, when an opening larger than 2mm by 10mm is present, there’s a greater chance of an abscess being present due to the bacteria remaining in the space.

Treatment Options for Teeth Cavities

Depending on the type of tooth decay your dentist encounters, they will recommend a specific treatment plan. For example, non-cavitated lesions do not affect surrounding teeth, so they are typically monitored. However, if a large lesion is present, root canal therapy may be necessary to remove the infection and repair damage to the pulp tissue.

Your dentist might recommend placing a dental sealant on the tooth’s surface to strengthen it and prevent further damage to small cavities.

Teeth cavities are a common dental problem. It’s essential to know the causes and what you can do to prevent them from happening in the first place. Many people don’t realize that there are different types of tooth decay, some of which require more severe treatment than others. Seeking guidance from a specialist is crucial.

Kamlesh Bakshi