Plain and simple, a cavity is a bacteria-caused hole in your tooth enamel that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Do you know the signs of cavity formation? Here at the North Vernon office of your family dentist, Dr. Scott Terry, patients learn all about tooth decay, receive treatment, and learn to prevent this common oral health problem. Read on to learn whether you should visit our office for cavity treatment.

Tooth decay and you

The National Center for Health Statistics reports that 9 out of every 10 adults in the US struggle with tooth decay. This startling fact concerns your North Vernon family dentist and his team, which is why they believe that education and preventive dentistry services definitely improve oral health at every level.

Regarding tooth decay—just what is it, and what causes it? Well, tooth decay originates with your diet and oral hygiene habits. When either one is deficient, hard outer enamel develops the characteristic holes that we call cavities. Oral bacteria thrives in the carbohydrate-based plaque and tartar that accumulates on and between tooth surfaces and at the gum line. Over time, these biofilms cause decay and gum disease, too.

Signs you have a cavity

Some symptoms of tooth decay include:

• Enamel discoloration, a visible hole, or dark spot (brown, black, or gray in color)
• Pain (either continuous toothache or discomfort when biting down and chewing)
• Dental sensitivity—a lingering sensation—in response to foods that are cold, hot, sugary, or acidic
• Bad breath

Additionally, extensive decay often goes hand-in-hand with periodontal disease. If you have red, puffy, bleeding gums, you likely also have cavities.

Prevention is important

Dr. Terry has been a strong advocate of fluoride, a natural mineral that strengthens enamel when applied topically or systemically via municipal water supply or orally-administered drops/tablets.

Your dentist also recommends sealants, which is a treatment that utilizes topically-applied acrylic to coat the grooves of your back teeth. Lasting about 10 years, sealants are generally used to decrease the incidence of decay in children, although adults can benefit from this simple preventive service, as well.

Most importantly, a healthy lifestyle prevents tooth decay. This includes:

• A low-carbohydrate, high-fiber diet
• Sufficient water intake every day (at least 8 glasses)
• Twice daily brushing with fluoridated toothpaste as advised by the American Dental Association
• Once-a-day flossing
• Six-month examinations and hygienic cleanings at the dental office
• Being alert to the signs of decay

Find out more

To schedule an appointment with your family dentist, please call Dr. Scott Terry's office in North Vernon, IN, today at (812) 346-4500.