Cavity Treatment at South Bay Dentistry

Most people think about cavities as tiny holes in the surface of their teeth. While this is a reasonably accurate description, cavities can affect teeth differently. The three most common types of cavities are:

 

• Root cavities
• Pit and fissure cavities
• Smooth-surface cavities

 

With prompt treatment, most types of cavities are treatable without any trouble. But when cavity treatment is delayed, expensive and lengthy treatments become necessary. Read below to learn more about each type of cavity and how to treat them before they become severe and costly dental problems. 

Root Cavities

Root Cavities occur on the surface of a tooth’s roots. They are more common in older adults who likely have gum disorders, including receding gums. When gums recede, the root surfaces become exposed, making them more susceptible to erosive acids in plaque, bacteria, and decay. Root cavities come with more tooth pain than the others. 

How Do You Treat Root Cavities?

Dr. Denise McCaskill removes tooth decay and fills the cavity with composite resin. If decay has spread to the pulp, root canal therapy is necessary. The root does not have as much protective tooth enamel, and tooth decay can spread relatively quickly. Dr. McCaskill may recommend a crown if the cavity is large.

Pit and Fissure Cavities

Pit and fissure cavities are commonly found on the chewing surface of the molars. These cavities are common, especially for people who don’t often brush or use fluoride toothpaste. 

What is Pit and Fissure Cavity Treatment?

If decay is found early, dental sealants can help prevent tooth decay in children and adults at a higher risk of dental caries. Once the cavity becomes deeper, a dentist must remove the decay and repair the tooth.

Fillings typically work well for smaller cavities. Large cavities, however, often require root canals or crowns if decay is very deep or the remaining tooth structure is too weak.

Smooth-Surface Cavities

Smooth-surface cavities affect the flat surface of the teeth. They are the slowest cavities to develop and the least common. Although they aren’t as common, these can be a problem for people who don’t practice good oral hygiene.

What is Smooth-Surface Cavity Treatment?

Smooth-surface cavities are slow-growing and more easily treatable. Many times, your dentist can resolve them with the help of fluoride treatments, such as gels, toothpaste, varnish, or fluoride-enriched water. A cavity generally takes quite some time to make its way through smooth-surface enamel. 

People can also develop interproximal cavities, which are smooth surface cavities between the teeth. Dentists usually use x-rays to detect them. If found, fluoride treatments often help unless the cavity enters the tooth’s dentin, in which case a filling is necessary.

Get Your Cavity Treatment in Apollo Beach

Practicing good at-home oral health is the best way to prevent cavities and avoid painful procedures and even tooth extractions. So, brush your teeth twice daily, and don’t forget to floss. If you sense something is off, give South Bay Dentistry a call. Catching cavities early on is the key!