The CDC or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that approximately 91% of people in the U.S. have some form of tooth decay, while 27% have untreated cavities. Most people probably think of miniscule holes in their teeth’s surface when they think about tooth decay, also called dental caries or cavities. Although this is description is fairly correct, cavities could impact your teeth in various ways. Below are three common cavity types and their recommended treatment options.
Root Cavities
These occur on the tooth root’s surface and are more usual in adults who have an increased risk of developing gum disorders such as a recession. When your gums recede, your teeth’s roots would be exposed, rendering them more vulnerable to tooth decay. Treatment of root cavities begins by getting rid of the decay and applying to fill to fill in cavities. If the pulp also has decayed, it would need to be treated through root canal therapy, and depending on the outcome fitted with a crown. It’s also crucial to note that because the roots don’t have sufficient enamel to protect them, decay could easily and quickly spread, so it’s immensely vital to treat root cavities as early on as possible, notes a family dentistry expert in Tempe.
Smooth Surface Cavities
These typically develop on the side sections of your teeth, which are the flattest and smoothest sections but could likewise develop in between your teeth. Because these develop slowly, they could be treated more easily. In most cases, they could be treated with fluoride treatments, including toothpaste, gels, fluoridated water, or varnish. If decay has managed to dig its way through your tooth’s enamel, you might need a filling to prevent further damage.
Fissure and Pit Cavities
Usually occurring on the back molars, this kind of cavity develops on the surfaces you use for chewing. Because it’s very easy for food and plaque to get stuck in the grooves and crevices of the molars, this type of cavity is fairly common, particularly among individuals who do not brush or clean their teeth properly or regularly. Depending on the specific circumstances, most usually if detected early on, sealants could be applied to help aid teeth in individuals who have a high risk of developing fissure and pit cavities. On the other hand, once they become deeper, the decay would have to be removed first and then the affected tooth repaired with a filling, root canal therapy, or crown. Fillings could work for small cavities, but larger cavities might require crowns or rot canal therapy due to deeper decay or if the tooth structure that remains is already too weak.
The key to resolving any cavity is early detection and appropriate treatment. Delaying treatment could result in further damage, and turn lengthier and more costly treatment. Also, delayed treat also increased the risk of pain and infection. With that said, this is why it’s critical to visit your dentist regularly. Doing so would help in catching dental health issues as early as possible before they turn into more severe and require expensive treatment.
