Cavities: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention 



What is a cavity?


Cavities and tooth decay are among the world's most common health problems. They're especially common in children, teenagers and older adults. But anyone who has teeth can get cavities, including infants. A cavity, also called tooth decay, is a hole that forms in your tooth. Cavities start small and gradually become bigger when they’re left untreated. Because many cavities don’t cause pain in the beginning, it can be hard to realize that a problem exists. Regular dental appointments can detect tooth decay early. The parts of teeth that are most vulnerable to tooth decay are areas where plaque can accumulate most easily. Plaque tends to settle into the pits and fissures in the tops of teeth, into the areas in between the teeth, and next to the gum line. Where there is plaque, there are bacteria and acid, and eventually destruction of the tooth surface. The cavity starts in the outer layer of the tooth (enamel) and as it gets deeper, penetrates into the softer inner layer of the tooth (dentin). Typically, it isn't until the decay reaches the dentin that a person will start to notice signs and symptoms of the cavity.

What are the signs of cavities?

 As tooth decay progresses, cavity symptoms start to appear. If you notice any of these common cavity symptoms, see your dentist as soon as possible. The earlier symptoms are identified, the quicker and easier the cavity treatment will be. Tune in to your teeth, and be on the lookout for these cavity symptoms: 
- Toothache, spontaneous pain
- Tooth sensitivity
- Mild to sharp pain when eating or drinking something sweet, hot or cold 
-Visible holes or pits in your teeth Black, white, or brown tooth stains
- Pain when you bite down

What causes cavities?

 Major causes of tooth decay are sugary, sticky foods and beverages. The more sugar consumed, the more acid, which gets produced leading to decay. Sugar combines with plaque to weaken the enamel leaving you vulnerable to tooth decay. Each time you eat a sugary snack, your teeth are vulnerable to damage from the acids for the next 20 minutes. It is important to understand the causes of tooth decay so you can learn the proper way to care for your teeth and care for your health. Cavity and tooth decay factors to watch out for: 
-too many sugary or acidic foods and drinks
- a poor oral hygiene routine, such as failing to brush or floss daily
- not getting enough fluoride
- dry mouth 
-eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia
- acid reflux disease, which can result in stomach acid wearing down your tooth enamel


How can I prevent a cavity?

 Good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities and tooth decay. Here are some tips to help prevent cavities. Ask your dentist which tips are best for you.
- Eat fewer sugary and acidic foods, like sweets, candy, juice, soda, and refined carbohydrates. 
-Limit snacking between meals.

 Toothbrush: Everyone knows you need a toothbrush to keep your teeth clean, but many don’t give the variety of toothbrushes much thought. While there are hundreds of options available, look carefully to find a toothbrush that can reach all the surfaces of your teeth. It’s also a good idea to find a brush that includes a textured tongue cleaner, since bacteria that cause oral malodor often live on your tongue. Specialized toothbrushes such as Oral B Electric Toothbrush Heads feature bristles designed to get in hard-to-reach areas and stimulate gums. 

You can find Oral B Electric Toothbrush Heads from our store here :

Oral Cavity Vectors by Vecteezy