Ouch! What is that pain in your tooth? It could very well be a cavity. Cavities are the second most common health condition, after the common cold. But at Naperville Family Dentists, cavities can be discovered in the early stages and treated with cost-effective reliability. That means you don’t have to worry about them turning into a bigger, more expensive problem.
What Causes Cavities?
Tooth decay causes cavities. Decay occurs when plaque and bacteria build up on your teeth and break down the enamel. The enamel is the hard outer layer that protects the teeth from corrosion. Once the enamel is weakened, the bacteria can get into the tooth and cause a cavity.
Cavities are more likely to occur in certain mouth areas, such as the back teeth (molars) and in between the teeth. Cavities form because it is harder to keep these areas clean, and the plaque and bacteria can build up more easily in the chewing surface grooves and fissures. Cavities can also occur if you have a dry mouth, which means there is not enough saliva in your mouth to wash away the plaque and bacteria.
Symptoms of Cavities
They often do not cause any symptoms in the early stages. This is why it is essential to see a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. We can examine your teeth for signs of decay during these appointments and treat the cavities before they cause any pain or other problems. As cavities progress, you may start to experience some symptoms, such as:
- Toothache
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- Visible holes or pits in your teeth
- Brown, white, or black spots on your teeth
- Pain when you bite down
- Bad breath
- Swelling or tenderness in your gums
If you experience any of these symptoms, please call our office right away so we can examine your teeth and provide treatment.
Treating Cavities in Naperville
Dr. Primiano and Dr. Mach are highly skilled and experienced in finding and treating cavities. We can quickly and easily restore your teeth to good health with state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.
The treatment for cavities depends on the severity of the decay. In the early stages, we may be able to treat the cavity with a simple filling. A dental filling involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and then filling in the hole with a composite resin material. The filling will restore the tooth to its original shape and function.
For more extensive decay, we may recommend a crown. A crown is a cap placed over the tooth to protect it from further damage. We can create crowns from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or metal. We will work with you to choose the best material for your needs.
A root canal may be necessary if the decay has reached the tooth’s pulp. This procedure involves removing the pulp from the tooth and then filling and sealing the empty space. We will then cover the tooth with a crown. We often use root canals to save teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted.
Preventing Cavities in Naperville
The best way to treat cavities is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. You can help reduce your risk of cavities by:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily
- Eating a healthy diet
- Avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Limiting your snacking
- Visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings
We can also provide preventative dentistry measures such as sealants, which will protect the tooth chewing surfaces from cavities. Just ask us for more details.
Keep Those Cavities Away in Naperville, Illinois
Call us today. You don’t have to worry about your oral health – we’re here to help. If you’re overdue for your checkup or haven’t been in for a while, now is the perfect time to see us at Naperville Family Dentists. We can make sure you don’t have any cavities or other dental conditions.