What to Do When You Hear: “You Have a Cavity.”

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SaludToday Guest Blogger
Jefferson Dental Clinics

“You have a cavity.”

You’ve probably heard this exact phrase from your dentist about your teeth. In fact, 82% of Latino adults have had a cavity.

What should you do?

First, bone up on what cavities are. “Demineralization” is the process of how tooth enamel loses minerals. Tooth enamel is comprised of a pattern of minerals and when they are lost, gaps in the pattern form that eventually widen and deepen as minerals are lost faster than the rate of rebuilding occurs.

A common misconception is that sugar itself erodes tooth enamel; however, the sugars simply act as a food for the bacteria. The bacteria produce lactic acid, which erodes the enamel when it is left to settle onto teeth.

Can you see or feel a cavity?

If you’ve ever had a cavity, particularly a deep one, you may notice increased sensitivity in the affected tooth, or even pain.

The average cavity is not usually visible at first glance; a dentist has several methods for detecting cavities, starting with x-rays. Advanced-stage decay that is left unattended may be seen.

Can tooth enamel be rebuilt?

In almost every case, cavities must be attended to by a dentist who will gently clean and remove decayed parts of the tooth, and refill the hole with a filling. More complex decay might require more than a simple filling to rebuild the tooth.

Tooth enamel may rebuild naturally through remineralization, in which tooth enamel absorbs missing minerals (usually through foods). Special remineralizing toothpastes may help, along with a diet rich in the necessary vitamins and minerals.

Can you prevent cavities?

Bacteria will always be present in the mouth.

But a good dental routine can manage harmful bacteria.

Brush and floss teeth twice daily, and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash. Brush for at least two minutes every time, and brush all surfaces of teeth. Tongue scraping is another way to control the growth of bacteria.

Furthermore, visiting the dentist for biannual visits and cleanings helps, not only keep teeth clean, but screen for cavities and other issues before they intensify.