Cavities, also known as tooth decay, are sneaky little troublemakers. They creep in slowly, often without pain at first, but if you ignore them, they can cause serious damage not just to your teeth, but to your overall oral health. So let's dive into what causes cavities, how to treat them, and how the best dentist in San Diego can help you keep your smile in top shape.
So, What Is A Dental Cavity?
Picture this: you're enjoying a sweet snack, and the sugars from your food start mixing with bacteria already living in your mouth. That combination creates acids that begin to wear down your enamel, the strong outer layer of your teeth. Over time, this erosion forms a tiny hole, a cavity.
But cavities aren't just a sugar issue. They can also be triggered by poor brushing habits, acidic saliva, or even the natural shape of your teeth (some of us are just born with harder-to-clean nooks and crannies).
Do You Know The Types of Cavities?
Did you know cavities can sneak up on different parts of your teeth? Here's a quick breakdown of the most common types and where they like to hide:
Smooth Surface Cavities
These guys are the slow movers. They tend to show up on the flat sides of your teeth, especially between them. The good news? With good brushing, flossing, and maybe a little help from fluoride, you can often stop them in their tracks—or even reverse them. They're pretty common in people in their 20s.
Pit and Fissure Cavities
These cavities love to hang out in the grooves and crevices on the tops of your back teeth—the spots where you chew. They're quick to form, especially during your teenage years, so keeping those hard-to-reach areas clean is super important!
Root Cavities
If your gums have started to recede a bit, this one's for you. When the roots of your teeth get exposed, they're more vulnerable to plaque and acid, which can lead to root decay. These types of cavities are tougher to prevent and treat, so if you're noticing gum recession, it might be worth chatting with a periodontist (a gum specialist).
Top Causes of Cavities
There's a bit of a “perfect storm” when it comes to tooth decay. Here's what typically sets things in motion:
Poor oral hygiene Skipping brushing or flossing? That plaque builds up fast.
Sugary & acidic foods Soda, candy, sticky carbs, even dried fruits.
Tobacco use Smoking doesn't just stain your teeth; it encourages bacteria growth.
Dietary disorders Conditions like bulimia or acid reflux expose teeth to harsh stomach acids.
Genetics & tooth structure Some teeth are more prone to decay just based on shape or placement.
Dry mouth Saliva is nature's way of washing bacteria away, so when it's lacking, cavities love to party.
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
