Do you have questions about tooth decay/cavities? If so, our dentist, Dr. Nadia Hamouda, is happy to help you. It’s best to understand cavities so you can prevent them as much as possible and even prepare for treatment if necessary. So, to help you, she is happy to provide the answers to frequently asked questions about cavities in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
What causes a cavity?
Plaque is the white film that causes cavities. It sticks to the front surfaces of your chompers and attacks the enamel. As it eats away the outer shell, it creates cavities. Plaque is created when the bacteria in your mouth feed off the sugar and carbohydrates you consume and turn them into acid plaque. If your teeth aren’t strong enough, the plaque can destroy them.
What are the ways to treat a cavity?
Your first option is a dental filling. This is the treatment necessary when the cavity is small and simple. Your second option is a dental crown. This is the treatment necessary when the cavity is more complex. Your third option is a root canal. This is the treatment necessary when the cavity has reached and infected the core of the tooth. Your last option is tooth extraction. This is the treatment necessary when the cavity has damaged the tooth to the point of no return.
What happens if I don’t get a cavity treated quickly?
Referring to the second question, major consequences could occur if you do not treat a cavity quickly. In fact, you would suffer severe pain and need more invasive dental treatments. Ignoring a cavity could also result in tooth extraction. Lastly, the cavity could affect more teeth if you’re not careful, especially if the cavity is between two teeth.
To learn more about tooth decay and the treatments involved in solving it, please contact White Pearl Dentistry at 734-222-0055 at your earliest convenience. Our dental team will be more than happy to help, and we look forward to your phone call!