Cavities (dental caries) are one of the most common dental issues, affecting individuals of all ages. They occur when tooth decay creates a hole in the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth. If left untreated, cavities can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. While cavities may start small, they can grow quickly, making prompt treatment essential to preserving your dental health.
The best Wilmington, NC, dentists identify and treat cavities before they compromise your oral health. With advanced techniques and a focus on patient comfort, they help patients restore and protect their smiles. Preventing cavities is possible with regular dental cleanings and exams. If you already have a cavity, getting a filling as soon as possible can help prevent further damage and infection.
What Causes Cavities?
Cavities are caused by a combination of bacteria, diet, and poor oral hygiene. Understanding the root causes can help you take steps to prevent them.
The Role of Bacteria and Sugars
Bacteria naturally live in your mouth, feeding on sugars from the food and drinks you consume. When you eat sugary or acidic foods, bacteria produce acid as a byproduct, which gradually erodes your enamel. Over time, this erosion creates small holes, or cavities, in your teeth.
Foods and beverages that are high in sugar or acid, like candy, soda, and citrus fruits, can speed up this process. Without proper dental care, the damage caused by these acids can worsen, eventually leading to tooth decay.
Other Risk Factors for Tooth Decay
In addition to diet, several factors can increase your risk of developing cavities:
- Poor oral hygiene: Skipping brushing or flossing allows plaque to build up and attack your teeth.
- Dry mouth: Saliva helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles, so reduced saliva production can make you more vulnerable.
- Frequent snacking or sipping on acidic/sugary beverages: Consistently exposing your teeth to sugars throughout the day increases the risk of decay.
- Tobacco use: Smoking or using other tobacco products weakens your teeth and gums, making them more susceptible to decay.
By addressing these factors, you can reduce your risk of cavities and protect your teeth.
Signs You Might Have a Cavity
Cavities can start small and often go unnoticed in their early stages. However, as the decay progresses, you may begin to experience symptoms such as:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Pain or discomfort when biting or chewing.
- Visible dark spots, holes, or discoloration on your tooth.
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Early intervention from a dentist in Wilmington can save your tooth and prevent more severe complications.
How Dentists Treat Cavities
The treatment for a cavity depends on the extent of the decay. At Kuzma Advanced Dentistry, we offer a variety of solutions to restore your tooth and maintain your oral health.
Small Cavities – Dental Fillings
For minor cavities, dental fillings are the most common treatment. Fillings involve removing the decayed portion of the tooth and restoring it with durable materials like composite resin or tooth-colored fillings.
Benefits of tooth-colored fillings include:
- A natural appearance that blends seamlessly with your teeth.
- Preservation of more natural tooth structure compared to amalgam fillings.
- Resistance to temperature changes, reducing sensitivity.
At Kuzma Advanced Dentistry, we prioritize your comfort during the procedure. Once the decay is removed, we prepare the tooth and place the filling, ensuring a strong, long-lasting result.
Medium Cavities – Inlays and Onlays
When a cavity is too large for a filling but not severe enough to require a crown, inlays and onlays, provide an excellent solution. These dental restorations:
- Fill the damaged area while preserving the healthy parts of your tooth.
- Provide additional strength and protection against further decay.
- Are custom-made to match the color and shape of your prepared tooth.
Inlays and onlays are made of porcelain and offer a durable, aesthetically pleasing option for treating moderate cavities.
Large Cavities – Crowns
A crown is often the best choice for extensive decay that compromises the tooth’s structure. Crowns are custom-made caps that cover the entire tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and function.
At Kuzma Advanced Dentistry, we use advanced technology to create crowns in-office, allowing you to leave with a restored tooth in just one visit. Crowns not only protect the remaining tooth structure but also blend seamlessly with your smile.
When a Tooth Can’t Be Saved
In some cases, the damage caused by a cavity is too extensive for the tooth to be repaired. When this happens, a dental implant may be the ideal solution for restoring your smile.
Dental Implants as a Permanent Solution
Dental implants are a long-lasting and natural-looking option for replacing a severely damaged or missing tooth. Benefits include:
- A natural appearance that mimics your original tooth.
- Preservation of jawbone health, preventing bone loss.
- Stability for neighboring teeth, maintaining proper alignment.
- Durability and longevity with proper care.
If a cavity has led to the loss of a tooth, dental implants can help you regain full functionality and confidence in your smile. Learn more about this transformative option by visiting our dental implants page.
Preventing Cavities Before They Start
While treating cavities is important, prevention is the best way to protect your teeth and avoid invasive procedures.
Tips to Prevent Cavities
- Brush twice a day: Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and remove plaque.
- Floss daily: Clean between your teeth to prevent decay in hard-to-reach areas.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods: Reducing your intake of sugary snacks and acidic foods can protect your enamel.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking water helps rinse away food particles and promotes saliva production.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Professional cleanings and exams are essential for identifying and addressing issues early.
By incorporating these habits into your routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of tooth decay.
Comprehensive Dental Care for All Ages
Preventing cavities is a vital part of family dentistry, which focuses on maintaining oral health for patients of all ages. At Kuzma Advanced Dentistry, we offer a full range of dental services to help you and your family achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. Learn more by visiting our general dentistry page.
Why Choose Our Office for Dental Care in Wilmington, NC?
Dr. Michael Kuzma and Dr. Hailey Kuzma are dedicated to providing personalized care and advanced treatments to help patients achieve optimal oral health. With a focus on patient comfort and the use of cutting-edge technology, they ensure every patient receives the best possible care.
As leading Wilmington, NC dentists, Dr. Michael and Dr. Hailey offer comprehensive solutions for cavities, including fillings, crowns, and dental implants. Their commitment to excellence and patient satisfaction makes our practice a trusted choice for dental care in the community.
Don’t Wait – Restore Your Smile Today
Cavities can cause serious damage if left untreated, but prompt care can save your tooth and protect your smile. At Kuzma Advanced Dentistry, we provide expert solutions to restore and maintain your oral health.
Whether you need a filling, crown, or implant, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan to meet your needs. Call our trusted Wilmington, NC, dentists at (910) 392-6060 for comprehensive dental services to achieve a healthy, confident smile.