What Are Dental Cavities?
Dental cavities, also known as tooth decay or caries, are permanently damaged areas on the surface of your teeth that develop into tiny holes or pits. Left untreated, cavities can grow deeper, leading to pain, infection, or even tooth loss.
What Causes Cavities?
Cavities form when bacteria in your mouth produce acids that erode the enamel (the hard outer layer of your teeth). Here’s a breakdown of how it happens:
Plaque buildup: Bacteria from food and drinks mix with saliva to form a sticky film called plaque.
Sugar intake: Sugars and starches feed the bacteria, producing acid.
Enamel breakdown: Acid attacks the enamel, eventually creating holes or soft spots in the tooth.
Decay spreads: If not treated early, the decay moves deeper into the dentin and pulp.
Risk Factors for Developing Cavities
You're more likely to develop cavities if you:
Eat a lot of sugary or acidic foods and drinks
Don’t brush and floss regularly
Have a dry mouth (low saliva production)
Don’t visit the dentist for routine checkups
Have deep grooves or pits in your teeth
Are a child, teen, or older adult
Early Signs of a Cavity
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
Visible holes or dark spots on your teeth
Toothache or sharp pain when biting down
Bad breath or unpleasant taste
White or chalky areas on your teeth (early enamel erosion)
How to Prevent Cavities
Good oral hygiene and lifestyle habits are the best way to prevent cavities:
✅ Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
✅ Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
✅ Limit sugary snacks and drinks
✅ Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash
✅ See your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups
✅ Ask about fissure sealants or fluoride treatments if you're at high risk
Cavity Treatment Options
Fluoride treatment: Can reverse early decay
Dental fillings: Restore teeth after decay is removed
Crowns: For large or deeply damaged teeth
Root canal: If the decay reaches the tooth’s nerve
Tooth extraction: Only if the damage is too severe
Don’t Wait for Pain—Cavities Can Be Silent
You may not feel a cavity forming. That’s why early detection is key. Regular dental visits help catch decay early before it becomes painful or expensive to fix.
Schedule Your Dental Checkup Today
At Pain Free Dentist Sydney, we’re committed to protecting your smile. From cavity prevention to gentle fillings, we offer personalized care in a calm and friendly setting.
📞 Call us at (02) 9558 8988
📍 Visit our clinic in 570 New Canterbury Rd, Hurlstone Park, NSW, 2193
🌐 Book online at https://painfreedentistsydney.com.au/