10946 Cavities

Overview

A cavity is a small hole that forms in a tooth. It happens when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on your teeth and makes acid that wears away the hard outer layer called enamel. If not treated, the hole can grow deeper and cause pain or infection.

Yes. Cavities are one of the most common health problems worldwide. Most adults will have at least one cavity at some point in their lives.

Anyone can get a cavity, but they are more common in children, teenagers, and older adults. People who eat a lot of sugary foods, have dry mouth, or do not brush and floss regularly are at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Toothache or pain that happens without warning
• Tooth sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold food and drinks
• Visible holes or dark spots on your teeth
• Mild pain when biting down
• Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth

Symptoms in children

• Irritability or crying without a clear reason
• Trouble eating or chewing
• White spots or brown staining on baby teeth
• Refusing certain foods, especially cold or sweet ones

Symptoms in older adults

• Cavities at the roots of teeth, near the gum line
• Sensitivity to cold air or drinks
• Cavities around existing fillings or crowns
• Dry mouth from some medicines, which makes it easier for cavities to form

Causes

Main causes

• Not removing plaque from teeth with regular brushing and flossing
• Eating or drinking sugary or starchy foods and drinks often
• Plaque bacteria turning sugars into acid that wears away tooth enamel
• Not getting enough fluoride, which helps repair enamel
• Dry mouth, because saliva helps wash away food and acid

Risk factors

• Snacking on sweets, chips, or sugary drinks throughout the day
• Poor brushing and flossing habits
• Not visiting the dentist regularly
• Heartburn or acid reflux, which brings stomach acid into the mouth
• Some medicines that reduce saliva
• Smoking or using other tobacco products

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Severe tooth pain that does not go away
• Swelling in your face, jaw, or neck
• Fever, especially with tooth pain
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing (call your local emergency number)

Book a routine appointment if:

• You notice a hole, brown spot, or any change on a tooth
• You have tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet things
• It has been more than six months since your last dental checkup

Diagnosis

A dentist or another oral health professional checks your teeth during a routine exam. They use a small mirror and a soft probe to look for soft spots or holes on the tooth surface. They may also ask about any pain or sensitivity.

Tests that may be done

• Dental X-rays to see cavities between teeth or under fillings
• A visual exam with a bright light and mirror
• A probe to gently test the surface of your teeth
• Sometimes a special dye that highlights areas of decay

What to expect at your appointment

The exam is usually quick and painless. If you need X-rays, you will wear a heavy apron to protect your body. The dentist or hygienist will tell you right away if they find any cavities and explain the next steps.

Treatment

Treatment depends on how deep the cavity is. The goal is to remove the decayed part of the tooth and fill the hole to stop further damage. The dentist will talk with you about the best option for your situation.

Self-care at home

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss once a day to clean between teeth
• Rinse with water after eating sugary foods if you cannot brush
• Drink water instead of sugary drinks
• Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or hard candy
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers only as directed if you have mild discomfort – remember, these do not cure the cavity

Medical treatments

Dentists may use fluoride treatments to repair early enamel damage. For a small cavity, they will remove the decay and place a filling. For larger cavities, they may use an inlay or crown (a cap that covers the tooth). If decay reaches the inner pulp, a root canal treatment can save the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be extracted.

When is surgery considered?

Tooth extraction is a minor surgical procedure done when a tooth is too damaged to save or when it affects the health of nearby tissues. Root canal treatment is also a procedure and may require more than one visit.

Living with this condition

After treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive for a few days. Chew on the other side if needed. Keep up your normal routine of brushing and flossing. If you have a temporary filling and then get a permanent one, the dentist will schedule a follow-up.

Lifestyle tips

• Brush after meals, or at least twice a day
• Floss daily
• Use fluoride toothpaste
• Chew sugar-free gum after snacks if you cannot brush
• Do not use tobacco products
• Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially between meals. Drink water that contains fluoride if available. Exercise is a healthy habit for your whole body, including your mouth, because it reduces stress and supports a healthy immune system.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Tooth problems can be stressful. If you feel anxious about dental visits or embarrassed about your teeth, you are not alone. Many people feel this way. Tell your dentist about your fears – they can help you feel more comfortable. Taking care of your teeth can also improve your self-confidence.

Prevention

Yes. Most cavities can be prevented with good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and regular dental checkups. Fluoride is a key part of prevention – it strengthens enamel and can repair very early decay before a cavity forms.

Screening programmes

Regular dental checkups are the best way to find cavities early. Some health services offer dental screenings at schools or community centers. Ask your dentist how often you should come for a checkup – for most people, every six months is recommended.

Complications

If left untreated

• The cavity can grow deeper and reach the nerve, causing severe pain
• An infection can spread to the root of the tooth and form an abscess (a collection of pus)
• Swelling that spreads to the face or neck
• Tooth loss
• Difficulty eating, which can affect nutrition

Long-term outlook

With treatment, most cavities are completely resolved. Even if a cavity is extensive, modern dentistry offers many ways to save teeth. Taking care of your teeth going forward can keep your mouth healthy for life.

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