Do I Have a Cavity?
Have you asked yourself, “Do I have a cavity?” It is a very common problem but also very easy to prevent. When you detect a cavity, what is the first step you should take? What are some common symptoms? What creates a cavity? Oceanside Dental and Orthodontics is here to help!
Tell Your Dentist
Why should telling your dentist be the first step to take? Decay is unfortunately ever growing when left alone. If the decay reaches the dentin, which is the soft and spongy layer of tooth beneath the enamel, the decay spreads more rapidly. If given the chance, the cavity can spread to the nerve and thus cause pain. By then it may be too late and a tooth extraction or root canal may be in order. As you can see, this can all be prevented with a dental check-up and any necessary treatment.
On the other hand, if your dentist tells you a cavity is not present, you have peace of mind knowing your worry is unfounded!
Symptoms
As explained above, you will feel pain if the decay reaches the nerve. In fact, if it reaches the dentin or nerve, many experience sensitivity to temperature or when chewing sweets. However, if it is surface, on the enamel, you are less likely to feel anything. Be on the look out for any dark, brown, or white spots. Additionally, as the decay eats away at your tooth it may cause an actual hole in your tooth.
What Causes Cavities?
Colgate’s website has an excellent explanation: “Your mouth is naturally full of bacteria. Some of that bacteria is perfectly healthy; some of it can be harmful. When you eat something sugary, such as candy or even potato chips, or drink a sugary beverage, the bacteria feeds on the sugars in the substance. It then produces acid, which is strong enough to wear away the enamel of the tooth, if not cleaned off quickly enough.”
Oceanside Dental wants to help you avoid all of this! How? Keep up your 6 month dental check-ups and do not procrastinate when you have suspicions! Give us a call to schedule your appointment 760 466 0776