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Dental Caries/"Cavities"

According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of dental caries (more commonly known as a cavity) is an area of decay in a tooth. Normal bacteria in the mouth convert all foods -- especially carbohydrates (foods high in sugar and starch) into acids. When bacteria, acids, food debris, and saliva combine, they form a substance called plaque. Plaque is a sticky substance that begins to accumulate on your teeth as quick as 20 minutes after eating. If this plaque is not removed thoroughly (by proper brushing, flossing, and professional teeth cleaning) tooth decay will begin and quickly multiply. Children and seniors tend to be more susceptible to tooth decay. Many children brush improperly and many of the elderly are unable to do a proper job. The size, structure, and shape of your teeth may also increase your risk of decay as many cavities start in hard to reach areas, such as in between the teeth and in the deep grooves and crevices of the chewing surfaces (stressing the importance of sealants and/or flossing in those hard-to-reach areas).

The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the tooth and start to create holes or “cavities” in the tooth. Small cavities are usually painless and are detected during routine exams and/or on routine x-rays. When decay grows inside the tooth and creates a large cavity it destroys the nerves and blood vessels causing pain. If the decay is left untreated, the internal structure of the tooth will be compromised requiring a root canal, or causing an abscess to develop (requiring extensive procedures which are both costly and time consuming) and may ultimately result in tooth loss.

How can I prevent decay?

With proper home care, decay is highly preventable. Brushing and flossing your teeth are needed twice a day, and professional teeth cleanings are needed every six months for the average patient. If you have any periodontal indications you may need to come more frequently for professional dental cleanings and may be required to practice more diligent home care.

Saliva is your best defense against the acids in your mouth (which ultimately cause decay). Saliva acts as a “diluter” and helps to “wash away” acids, food debris, and bacteria in your mouth. If you feel that you your mouth is dry, try sipping water frequently throughout the day to aid in saliva flow or chew a sugarless gum.

Acting as a remineralizing agent, fluoride is another substance that is helpful in preventing decay. Most communities have fluoridated water and most makers of toothpaste are placing fluoride in their products to help strengthen tooth structure. If you are concerned that you are not receiving enough fluoride or if you have large amounts of decay and are interested in additional fluoride, there are fluoride prescription rinses, supplements, and gels that can be prescribed for home use, after a thorough evaluation by Dr. Hopgood.

Advanced Dental Concepts
Richard D. Hopgood D.M.D., M.A.G.D.
296 Lowell Street
Andover, MA 01810
Telephone: 978-475-2431
Email: info@andoverdmd.com