What is Cavity (Tooth Decay)?

Tooth cavity professionally termed Dental Caries, is progressive,infection disease that destroys the hard tissue of a tooth.A cavity is a literal hole or damage left behind on tooth surface as a result of decay.

2. Signs and Symptoms

• Visible holes or Dark spots

• Food lodgement

• Pain while chewing

• Bad breath

• Sensitivity to hot or cold

• Tooth pain ( If left untreated)
  

3. Causes

• Poor brushing habits

• Sugary foods and drinks

• Dry mouth

• Bacteria buildup (plaque & calculus)

• Irregular dental checkups

• Inadequate fluoride exposure

4. Risk Factors

• Frequent snacking habits

• Smokers

• Diabetic patients

• Poor oral hygiene habits

• Children 
  

5. Stages of the Disease

• Stage 1:-   Early Decay :- The outer layer enamel is weakened by acids released by bacteria, causing loss of minerals and appear as white,chalky spots on tooth.

• Stage 2:-  Cavity Formation:- The enamel breaks down further as loss of minerals continue, reaches second layer known as dentin and decay progresses faster leaving behind a permanent hole known as cavity.

• Stage 3:-  Pulp damage :- The decay penetrates the pulp containing nerves and blood vessels,causing severe tooth aches,swelling of tissues around tooth and discomfort.

• Stage 4:-  Dental Abscess:- The infection reaches root tip over the time period, if left untreated, causing severe local infection and pus accumulation(abscess)

6. What Happens If Left Untreated?

• Tooth pain (mild to severe)

• Sensitivity to hot and cold

• Tooth fracture

• Swelling (Intra/ Extraoral)

7. Diagnosis at Singh Dental Care :- Whenever patient comes to Singh Dental Care with chief complaint of cavity in teeth, we do

• Clinical Examination - To see the condition of oral cavity

• Take intraoral pictures - To aware patient about condition of his oral cavity

• Taking digital Xrays - To confirm the extent of decay

• Diagnosis and Treatment - To relieve patient of their discomfort in best possible way

 8. What will be the treatment Options 

• Dental Fillings :- At stage 1 and stage 2

• Root Canal Treatment :- At stage 3 and stage 4( if possible clinically)

• Tooth Extraction :- If prognosis of affected tooth is not good

 9. Prevention Tips

• Brush twice daily

• Use fluoride toothpaste

• Reduce sugary items intake

• Avoid frequent snacking habits

• Visit dentist every 6 months