Knowing the types of cavities is important for avoiding future dental problems. Cavities occur when an opening in the hard surface of the tooth enamel develops. Unless treated, these cavities continue to grow, affecting more layers of the tooth. It is also a sign of a larger oral health problem. To treat them effectively, you should see a dentist regularly. Cavities occur in a variety of factors.
One of the most common causes of tooth decay is improper brushing or lack of flossing. People should brush their teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Another cause of cavities is a lack of fluoride. Fluoride has been shown to reverse the early stages of tooth damage and prevent cavities. Young children, teenagers, and older adults are more likely to develop cavities.
Smooth surface. Cavities are generally small holes in the tooth's surface or usually occur on the smoothest parts of the teeth. They usually appear on the back teeth. They occur in areas where plaque and food debris get trapped. This debris provides fuel to bacteria, which feed on tooth enamel and cause cavities. They may appear in any color, but most commonly they look like holes, chalky material, or black spots. When a cavity is large enough, it will cause pain in the mouth and can be difficult to treat.
Root cavity. This type is more common among older adults and is caused by receding gums. Because the roots of teeth are exposed to acid and plaque, they are much more vulnerable to tooth decay. In these cases, root cavity treatment may be necessary. There are several treatments for root cavities, but they all involve a dental procedure. It's important to see your dentist as soon as possible for proper treatment.
Pit & Fissure. Smooth surface cavities are the least common type of cavity. They're not as severe as pit and fissure cavities. But they still require prompt treatment, and even a minor cavity can be remedied with a fluoride treatment. More severe cases require dental fillings. Cavities left untreated can eventually develop into other types and compromise the long-term health of the tooth. Some people even lose teeth as a result of cavities.
Root and pit cavities affect the teeth in different ways. A cavity on the back of a tooth's root is called a root cavity. These develop in a narrow groove of the tooth's root. People with receding gums are at higher risk for root cavities. They may also develop smooth surface cavities. These cavities often occur in adults. If not caught early, they can be difficult to reverse. However, proper dental care can prevent and reverse them.
Dentists will classify cavities by their progression. They include incipient, moderate, and advanced cavities. The first stage is the mildest and can be treated easily. Symptoms include painful dentin and chalky white spots. A dentist can repair these areas and restore the teeth. In addition, dental fillings can eliminate bacteria and restore teeth. Once you have been diagnosed, your dentist can determine which treatment is the best one for you.
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