Cavities form when tooth decay has weakened and opened holes in the tooth enamel, exposing the tissues and nerves inside the root canal. Exposed nerves cause sensitivity and discomfort and make your tooth vulnerable to infection. Patients who have cavities may have tooth pain or increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages.
Dr. Jason Baldwin is a Truckee, CA dentist who cleans and fills cavities. Learn how cavities form, as well as how to prevent and treat them below.
How Do Cavities Form?
Our mouths contain harmless bacteria. However, when these bacteria become concentrated, they form plaque, often in hard places to reach including the gum line and between teeth. When we eat foods that contain carbohydrates or starches, bacteria break down these components. But this creates acids that adhere to the plaque and eat away at tooth enamel.
Preventing and Treating Cavities
The best preventative measure against cavities seems simple, but it’s effective. Brushing and flossing twice a day removes plaque and also strengthens your tooth enamel. Flossing in particular can remove plaque and bacteria from between teeth. You can also cut down on carbohydrates and keep yourself hydrated as dry mouth can accelerate the acidic breakdown of your teeth.
Dr. Baldwin treats cavities with dental fillings. After cleaning out the infection from the tooth, he will fill in weakened areas of the tooth enamel with composite resin. Also known as “white fillings”, the resin material blends in with teeth for a natural-looking end-result. Dental fillings seal out the decay and eliminate the cavity for a healthier and more stable smile.
Contact Our Dental Office
Do you have severe tooth pain? Do you believe you have a cavity? Receive dental filling treatment in one of Dr. Baldwin’s dental offices. Call our Truckee office at (530) 206-0392 or call our Loyalton office at (530) 993-4728.