Cavities: Causes and Solutions

Tooth decay and cavities are common yet highly damaging dental problems. If left untreated, small cavities can allow bacteria to enter the tooth. These harmful bacteria cause inflammation that not only infect the teeth and gums but also affect heart health. Cavities are pits or holes in the tooth enamel. They form in worn and weakened areas on the teeth affected by bacteria buildup. Once a cavity forms, it exposes the nerves and blood vessels within the tooth. As a result, many patients experience tooth pain and sensitivity. 

At Foothills Dentistry, Dr. Shruti Chahal treats cavities with dental fillings in Calgary, AB. She is dedicated to helping patients maintain healthy smiles. Here, you can learn more about what causes cavities as well as how Dr. Chahal preserves teeth with dental fillings.

How Do Cavities Form?

The outer layer of teeth is called the tooth enamel. Within the tooth is the chamber, filled with pulp. The tooth pulp is made up of soft tissues and nerves protected by the hard tooth enamel. Many cavities form due to poor oral hygiene. Bacteria in the mouth feed on food particles left in the mouth. During the digestion process, the bacteria produce acids that eat away at the tooth enamel. Over time, the acids erode and wear the enamel, forming a cavity. This hole in the enamel exposes the inside of the tooth, which can cause pain and sensitivity.

How to Treat and Prevent Cavities

A small cavity is usually treated with a root canal and then dental filling. During a root canal, Dr. Shruti Chahal removes the infected pulp. Then, she cleans and disinfects the tooth chamber. To seal the tooth and prevent reinfection, Dr. Shruti Chahal will then provide a dental filling. Modern dental are made of a composite material that easily blends in with the color of natural teeth. For a larger cavity, some patients may need a dental crown. Tooth crowns fully cover the tooth and keep it strong.

One of the best ways to prevent tooth decay and cavities is to brush and floss twice a day. A good oral hygiene routine removes food debris from the teeth and gums and prevents bacteria from hardening, which makes it difficult to clean. We will also recommend regular dental visits. At routine dental appointments, our dental hygienists remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can build up easily. Over time, plaque hardens to form tartar. Removing these bacterial deposits also prevents decay. Another way to prevent cavities is to stay hydrated, as a dry mouth accelerates bacterial growth.

Schedule a Dental Appointment

Have you noticed signs of tooth decay or a cavity? Contact Foothills Dentistry today. New patients can call Foothills Dentistry at (587) 410-0821. If you are a current patient, please call (403) 203-0367. Feel free to request a dental consultation with Dr. Shruti Chahal on our website. Please let her know if you have further questions about your current oral health symptoms. She will be happy to assist you.