Have you foregone your usual after-dinner desserts, lately, because of dental discomfort anytime you try to enjoy something sweet? Maybe your morning cup of coffee has started coming with a side of sensitivity, ever since you noticed some dark lines along the crevices of a tooth. If so, you are exhibiting common symptoms of a dental cavity, which is caused when acidic erosion has exposed the layer of tooth beneath the enamel. This can cause sensitivity, and eventually lead to a painful infection, if left untreated. Fortunately it is possible to prevent most cavities, and if you have one now, restorative treatment might be simpler than you think.

Preventive Care Is Key

Dental hygiene, including daily brushing and flossing, is key to keeping your smile healthy and cavity-free. Of course, hygiene alone is not enough to prevent the plaque buildup that is responsible for causing most cavities.

This bacteria creates acidity that can begin to erode the tooth’s tough enamel surface. To prevent this, regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial. During a preventive dental appointment, the dentist can check for burgeoning issues like cavities, and treat them as needed.

Just as importantly though, the dentist will help thoroughly clean your teeth, helping to prevent future issues by removing calcified tartar buildup (which can only be removed through a professional cleaning).

Limiting sugar intake can also help keep the teeth and gums healthy, since plaque feeds on sugars. That is why many patients notice sensitivity particularly when eating sweet treats, while suffering from a cavity.

Restorative Treatment Is Often Simple

Thankfully, it is often simple to address a cavity. In many cases, especially if caught early, a cavity can be treated with a tooth filling. Applying fillings is a fast and minimally invasive procedure, and one that can help to seal the tooth against more decay, also helping to prevent infection or further wear.