Does tooth pain have you in agony? Chances are your tooth pain can be from an undiagnosed cavity.
What Causes Tooth Cavities
At some point in your life, you will have to deal with a tooth cavity. While cavities are particularly prevalent in children and adolescents, they can also affect adults. Regular visits to the dentist can stop cavities before they start. Although, we know that cavities can sometimes be hard to prevent in certain situations. Even certain medications can cause dental cavities. Dr. Leonard Hess fosters a judgment-free dentist office. We provide general dental tips for to keep your teeth healthy, without judgment.
Tooth cavities, also called dental caries by dentists, are a form of tooth decay. Natural bacteria in the mouth form plaque on your teeth. When plaque comes in contact with sugars and starches from foods, it produces acid which can damage tooth enamel over time and lead to tooth decay.
Tooth Cavity Symptoms
You may be experiencing some, or all, of the following symptoms if you have a tooth cavity:
- Toothache
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Pain when eating hot or cold foods and beverages
- Visible holes in teeth
- Pus around tooth and gums
Preventing Tooth Cavities
“Brush and floss every day,” says Dr. Hess. Cavities often form between teeth, so don’t skip the flossing part. Regular visits to the dentist are also very important. A professional dental cleaning can remove plaque that normal brushing leaves behind. The dentist can identify early signs of tooth decay and recommend treatment before it progresses. In addition, you can prevent tooth cavities by maintaining a healthy diet and limiting sugary snacks and soda.
Tooth Cavity Treatments
If you already have cavities, or if your teeth are showing signs of decay, Dr. Hess offers a range of general dentistry services to restore stability to the tooth and provide protection from future damage or decay.
Composite Dental Fillings: These fillings are placed in a single visit and are used to treat teeth with minor tooth decay. They can be made of a composite resin material or porcelain material. They can last a lifetime with a good oral health routine.
Inlays and Onlays: These types of restorations are generally used when there is more significant tooth decay, but not enough to warrant a root canal. Inlays and Onlays can protect teeth from further deterioration.
Root Canal: If the tooth decay has advanced and is causing an infection at the root of the tooth, you may need a root canal. This procedure is the best way to treat a diseased tooth and avoid an extraction.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
Looking for a Monroe or Charlotte, NC area dentist office? Schedule an appointment with Union County Center for Comprehensive Dentistry today. We are currently accepting new patients!
Dental cavities are highly preventable. Tooth decay can be treated by visiting your dentist in Monroe, NC regularly. Whether you are new to the Charlotte area or just trying to find a new dentist, consider Dr. Leonard Hess a the Union County Center for Comprehensive Dentistry.