Cavity is another name for tooth decay-damage to the Enamel (hard outer layer) and dentin (soft living inner layer) of a tooth.
The acid by-product from bacteria slowly eats and melts away the tooth allowing deeper penetration of the bacteria into the tooth. The bacteria have a plan and that is to get to the pulp also called nerve of your tooth. This is their pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
They attempt to get into your teeth 24 hours per day and 7 days per week. They do not take vacation time.
They know if they get into your nerve it will give them an endless supply of nutrients that will help them to multiply and flourish… this is called a dental abscess. Our teeth are alive. Have you ever bitten into ice cream or drink ice cold water and feel it in your teeth? Of course you have ; your tooth nerve connects to your brain!
There is a constant war going on in your mouth between the little animals (bacteria) and your immune system. If we did not have an immune system, this infection could kill us. This is why the aging adult with the decreased immune system is so susceptible to both gum disease and tooth decay (cavities).
Unfortunately, the bacteria win the battles and the war.
What are the signs that bacteria are winning the war?
- Bleeding gums
- Recession
- Tooth mobility
- Tooth loss
- Cavities
- Multiple fillings
- Fillings needing replacement
- Root canal therapy
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Implants
- Dentures
- Partials
Almost every Dental specialty exists to help people fight this invisible enemy called bacteria.
Who gets Cavities?
If you have teeth, you can get a cavity. This is not just a childhood disease. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial research 42% of children 2 to 11 have had dental cavities in their primary (baby) teeth. 23% of children in the same age group have untreated cavities.
Approximately 5% of adults 20 to 64 have no teeth. 92% of adults 20 to 64 have had dental cavities in their permanent teeth and 26% of adults have untreated cavities .
Our risk of tooth decay (cavities) is influenced by many health and environmental factors.
The following increases our risks:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Too much time between professional cleanings and exams
- Poor diet
- Too much alcohol
- Smoking
- Suppressed immune system such as Asthma
- Diabetes and other medical conditions
- Medications that create a dry mouth
- Crowded teeth that makes access difficult
As you can see, there are many factors that contribute to getting cavities. All of the above mentioned conditions contribute either directly or indirectly to the production of high levels of acid in the mouth.
In a nutshell, how to control acid levels in the mouth is the challenge.
Our saliva plays a major role in protecting us from the harmful effects of acid caused by bacterial growth. Saliva is a natural lubricant that when mixed with food to create a bolus helps us to swallow food more easily. It coats the teeth to create a natural lubricant to help prevent food from sticking to our teeth forming plaque (Tartar). Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase that breaks down complex starches to initiate digestion and readies the food for further digestion.
Do Cavities Hurt?
That’s the problem. When cavities start off small, they are so far away from the nerve that we don’t feel them.
If we wait for things to break or hurt the solution to the problem becomes so complex and expensive.
This is why you should come to the office of Dr. David D. Gianino and have your entire mouth examined for cavities, gum disease, TMJ disease, oral cancer, correct bite, etc.
A comprehensive team approach is the best investment you can make not only in your Oral Health but your overall health.
The days of “If it’s not broken don’t fix it” mentality is OVER.
With today’s detailed Digital Radiographs and Fluorescent light screening systems early detection of cavities has never been better. Be proactive! If it has been more than one year since your last visit to a Dentist, we invite you to become part of our Dental Family and receive the gentle, quality Dental care you deserve. The mouth is a mysterious place that can have bad things occur and you not know it. Let us help you find the enemies and evict them for you.
Have additional questions about cavities? Don’t hesitate to Contact Us or leave a reply below and we will be happy to try and answer them for you!
