Okemos, Lansing and East Lansing Michigan
Cavities affect both children and adults as a result of oral bacteria. Poor oral hygiene, a diet high in sugar and processed foods, as well as certain health factors can increase one’s risk of cavities or tooth decay. If left untreated, cavities may cause a tooth infection known as an abscess and result in the need for a root canal or worse, tooth loss. The good news is that with routine dental visits, the dentist can detect cavities in their early stages and prevent additional damage to the tooth. But how do dentists detect cavities? Dr. Tenaglia of Tenaglia Smiles answers that question on our newest blog today but first, let’s explore what cavities are and how to treat them.
What are cavities?
A cavity is an active oral infection that affects teeth by eroding or eating away at the tooth. Most people are unaware when they have cavities until they experience pain. Cavities form as tiny holes in dental enamel and begin collecting stains that cause the hole to look gray or black over time. The cavity becomes larger and can spread to adjacent teeth if not treated.
How are cavities treated?
Discovering cavities in the early stages is essential to treating the problem and preventing it from worsening. Cavities can be treated by removing the decay and placing a composite material that bonds to the remaining tooth structure to restore the tooth. In cases of severe cavities, a dental crown may be recommended to restore the tooth. However, if more than half of the tooth structure is affected, the tooth may need to be extracted.
How does the dentist detect cavities before they get too big?
Everyone should see the dentist at least once every six months to help keep their teeth and gums healthy. During these visits, the dentist visually inspects your teeth for early signs of decay looking for pits or tiny holes in your teeth. The dentist will probe these areas using a tiny hook like instrument. If the suspicious area is sticky, this indicates tooth decay that should be treated. At this point, the cavity should be small enough to repair with a filling. But there is a more absolute way to detect cavities, and this next method utilizes technology.
X-rays are usually taken at least once a year or every other visit to help provide a view between your teeth and the surrounding jawbone. Cavities are evident on dental x-rays and show up as a dark spot on the tooth. Additionally, x-rays can help dentists identify cavities that may have been missed or gone undetected during the visual examination.
Ways to prevent cavities
Since early detection of cavities is key in terms of preserving your oral health, it’s essential to see the dentist regularly or at least twice a year. Just like exercising and eating healthy helps prevent chronic diseases, taking care of your teeth and gums by daily brushing and flossing as well as twice yearly dental visits can help prevent cavities. Some other tips that Dr. Tenaglia recommends reducing your risk of cavities is to limit foods that are high in sugar or that are processed because they provide fuel for oral bacteria that cause cavities. Additionally, sip water between meals and limit the amount of sodas or sugary beverages you consume.
Family Dentist in Lansing, East Lansing, and Okemos, Michigan
Dr. Tenaglia provides family dental care to patients of all ages. She stands behind the American Dental Association’s recommendation that every one of all ages should visit the dentist twice a year for cleanings and check-ups. To learn more ways to protect your oral health or schedule an appointment, contact Tenaglia Smiles by calling (517) 347-6733.