What are cavities?

Dental cavities are holes in teeth caused by tooth decay. Cavities are also referred to as caries.

What are microcavities?

Teeth are in an environment of constant acid attack that strips the teeth of important minerals and breaks the teeth down. While this attack is constantly occurring, minerals are also be constantly replenished through mineral-rich saliva and fluoridated water and toothpaste. In addition to fluoride, calcium and phosphate also help to remineralize enamel. When the demineralization starts and is confined to the outermost layer of enamel, it is called a microcavity, or incipient cavity. These types of cavities rarely need anything more than very conservative treatment.

How are cavities diagnosed?

A dentist can detect a cavity by using a sharp instrument to feel tooth structure that has been softened by tooth decay. If a cavity forms in between the teeth, it may only be visible on an X-ray

What is the treatment for cavities?

Prevention  limiting the amount and frequency of sugars and starches in our diet is the easiest way to prevent dental caries

Restoration: When a cavity is too large to be remineralized, it must be restored.