Cavities are holes in teeth that are created by bacteria. If you have a cavity, it may be difficult to chew. You may also feel tooth pain and sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages. Although cavities are more common in children, they can occur as we age.
Dr. Albert Caves treats patients who have cavities in Columbus, GA. He helps patients restore their oral health and seal off cavities to fight off infection. But what exactly causes cavities, how can they be treated, and how can they be prevented from coming back in the future?
How Cavities Form
Bacteria feed on the plaque that forms from food particles left in the mouth. Some plaque can build up in areas that are hard to reach, between teeth and below the gumline. Bacteria break down starches and carbohydrates with digestive acids. These acids can eventually feed on the tooth enamel, forming holes called cavities.
Cavities can make it easier for infection to reach the canal inside the tooth. They also cause tooth sensitivity and pain.
Treating Cavities
Dr. Caves provides root canal treatment that removes infection and effectively seals cavities. Cavities allow bacteria access to the inside of your tooth where it can cause an infection to the pulp and nerves inside the chamber of the tooth. Although dental fillings can be made of amalgamated metal, Dr. Caves uses composite material to fill the tooth after root canal treatment. Composite blends in with the color of natural teeth.
During treatment, Dr. Caves makes a small hole in the tooth to access the infected nerves and pulp in the tooth. After removing the infection and cleaning the inside of the tooth, he seals it off with a white filling.
Prevent Cavities from Forming
Brushing after meals or at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste helps to remove plaque from the tooth enamel. Flossing at least once a day removes plaque buildup from between the teeth. Remember to schedule regular appointments with Dr. Caves so he can catch dental problems like cavities before they worsen.
Contact Our Columbus, GA Office Today
If you are a new patient, call (706) 407-4851. Current patients may call our office at (706) 571-0079. We look forward to seeing you at your next appointment.