How many Types of Cavities are there and How to Prevent Them

Dental cavities are formed when bacteria present in your teeth produce acids due to their metabolic activities. These acids attack the teeth' enamel and develop holes. The cavities usually form in a small way but grow gradually if left untreated. Initially, there may not be any symptoms like an accompanying pain but with time, the cavities can become infected and cause tooth pain. In severe cases, these may lead to tooth loss as well. So, to stop tooth decay, besides following good oral hygiene, one should visit a dental professional periodically, say a dentist in Northcote.  

Forms of cavities

In general, cavities are classified into three forms:

·         Root cavities

·         Pit and fissure cavities

·         Smooth surface cavities

Let’s learn about them in some detail.

Root cavities: These cavities are formed at the root of one’s teeth, and are found more among seniors who are likely to suffer from gum disorders like receding gums. So, when gums recede, the tissues surrounding the teeth go much lower thereby exposing the root surfaces. This way, the root surfaces become vulnerable to acid attacks synthesized by bacteria working on leftover food in the buccal cavity. A tooth cavity can spread rapidly when there is no protective enamel to cover it. Hence, it is all the more important to visit a dentist to stop the cavity from causing further damage.

It is only a dentist, such as a dentist in Thornbury, who can treat cavities by removing the decayed material inside the cavities. He or she then fills the cavity with a filling. However, should the decay seem to have spread to the pulp, a root canal treatment may become necessary to save the tooth. In a root canal, if the cavity happens to be large, the dentist may use a crown to cover the decayed portion of the tooth.

Pit and fissure cavities: Such cavities are generally found on molars at the rear, especially in the chewing area of your teeth. These cavities are quite common as food tends to get stuck in the nook and crannies of the teeth. This happens more in people who do not follow proper dental hygiene. Your dentist, say, the dentist in Brunswick, may use a sealant to protect your teeth from such a cavity.   

Pit and fissure cavities can be treated using sealants or some forms of fluoride. However, if the cavity is small, the dentist needs to remove the decayed material and use fillings to repair the damage. The dentist may even use root canals or/and crowns, especially when the decay is too deep and the tooth structure is weak.  

Smooth surface cavities: These types of cavities are found on the teeth residing on the sides of your buccal cavity. These occur rarely and grow slowly, especially among people who do not follow proper dental hygiene. Since smooth surface cavities are slow to develop, they are easier to treat as well. In many cases, they are cured using fluoride toothpaste, gel, or a fluoride-enriched solution. However, if such cavities are deep-seated then your dentist, say the dentist in Northcote, can go for a filling.

Conclusion

More people around the world suffer from dental cavities, which often worsen due to a delay in treatment. So, in order to prevent such cavities from forming or spreading further, go for regular dental checkups. Your dentist in Northcote will be the best person to find out such cavities and offer a prompt and effective cure.