Tooth decay is a common dental issue in the world today, unfortunately. Even though it’s common, it doesn’t mean it’s less dangerous. In fact, it’s one of the most serious and dangerous dental issues. It typically develops when you have poor oral hygiene, you fail to visit Dr. Lonnie Anderson twice a year, and you have a high-carbohydrate diet. The bacteria attack the teeth and damage the enamel, and the damage is called a cavity.
Many people think children are the only ones who can suffer from cavities, but that’s not the case. Everyone can have a cavity if they’re not careful. Seniors can also fall victim to tooth decay because cavities develop around older fillings, and the seniors didn’t usually take good care of their smiles while they were younger, so their teeth are more fragile.
In order to tell if you have a cavity, you usually have a toothache or tooth sensitivity. This means your tooth is in a constant pain or it is sensitive when you eat and drink hot or cold foods and beverages. You can also find out if you have a cavity if you feel or see a hole in your tooth. Typically, your dentist detects the cavity during your routine dental exam.
Fortunately, there are many treatments for decayed teeth. At the early stages, your dentist can use a dental filling made out of amalgam or composite resin to restore the tooth. If the cavity is a little bigger, he can restore the tooth with a dental crown, which is also known as a tooth cap. If this is not a viable option, he can treat your root canal with therapy. If these options do not restore your oral health, the tooth will need to be pulled from the mouth.
Would you like to know more about cavities in Juneau, Alaska? If so, call our dental office today at 907-789-2066! We also encourage you to schedule an appointment if you think you might have a cavity on one or more teeth. The sooner you call our office, the better!
