Cavities

What is a cavity?

A cavity is a bacterial infection inside the tooth.

How does a cavity form?

Bacteria in the mouth consume fermentable carbohydrates, releasing acids into the mouth. When the mouth becomes sufficiently acidic, the teeth may not be able to remineralize or harden. This can result in the teeth becoming porous and allowing bacteria to seep into the microscopic gaps that the tooth develops.

What happens if the cavity is in the enamel of the tooth?

If the cavity is located in the enamel of the tooth, it will be monitored. In some cases, it may remain there for some time or even heal back and remineralize.

What happens when a cavity progresses into the dentate of the tooth?

When a cavity progresses into the dentate of the tooth, even if it's a tiny bit, it is not reversible. It will not heal, and a filling will be required.

What happens if a cavity is left untreated?

The cavity will progress to the nerve, infect the nerve, and kill the nerve. The infection then spreads from the root tips of the tooth into the jaw bone, causing swelling in the face.

What should be done if a doctor informs about a cavity?

If a doctor diagnoses a cavity, they should be trusted and appropriate measures should be taken.

What happens if one does not feel any pain from a cavity?

Even if there's no pain, the cavity can still progress to the nerve and infect it, leading to further complications.