Cavities are one of the most common dental concerns among adults. They form when plaque, bacteria, and dietary acids weaken tooth enamel and create areas of decay. The most common causes include poor oral hygiene, frequent snacking, dry mouth, and diets high in sugar or refined carbohydrates.
Cavities can be painful and may progress quickly if left untreated. At Decatur Dental Care, we emphasise prevention through consistent daily oral hygiene, balanced nutrition, and routine dental visits to help protect your long-term oral health.
What Causes Cavities
Cavities develop when the teeth are frequently exposed to sugary foods, acidic beverages, or carbohydrates that break down into sugars. These sugars combine with oral bacteria to form plaque, a sticky film that coats the tooth surface. As bacteria feed on these sugars, they produce acids that weaken and damage tooth enamel.
Over time, these acids can erode the enamel and penetrate deeper layers of the tooth, leading to decay that requires professional treatment. Even if early cavities are not noticeable, they continue to progress and can lead to significant discomfort without timely care.
How to Know if You Have a Cavity
Some cavities are clearly visible, but many begin between the teeth or along areas that cannot be easily seen. Dental exams and imaging make it possible to detect early decay before it worsens.
Common signs and symptoms of cavities in adults include:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- Discomfort with sweet or acidic foods
- Pain when chewing
- A dull or sharp toothache
- Sensitivity to spicy foods
- Visible spots, pits, or holes on a tooth
If you notice any of these concerns, we recommend scheduling an exam so we can assess the area and provide appropriate treatment before the problem progresses.
How to Prevent Cavities at Home
Daily habits play a major role in protecting your teeth. Here are effective steps to reduce the risk of tooth decay:
Evaluate your diet: Limiting sugary or starchy snacks helps reduce acid attacks on the teeth. Choosing whole foods and drinking water throughout the day supports healthier enamel.
Avoid frequent snacking: Snacking exposes your teeth to repeated acid production. It is best to enjoy sweets or carbohydrates with meals when saliva flow naturally increases and offers more protection.
Limit sticky foods: Foods that cling to the teeth, such as chewy candies or caramel, can accelerate plaque buildup and increase the risk of decay.
Rinse after meals: Drinking water after eating helps wash away lingering food particles and reduce acidity in the mouth.
Brush and floss daily: Brush at least twice each day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day to remove plaque from areas your toothbrush cannot reach.
Manage dry mouth: Saliva helps neutralise acids and protect enamel. If you experience dry mouth from medications or other factors, we can recommend strategies to improve moisture and reduce your risk of cavities.
Use fluoride appropriately: Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. We can determine whether fluoride treatments or supplements would be beneficial for your oral health.
Keep regular dental appointments: Professional cleanings and examinations allow us to detect early signs of decay, address high-risk areas, and support your long-term oral health.
Have Questions About Cavity Prevention
If you have concerns about tooth sensitivity, possible cavities, or preventive dental care, we are here to help. Contact us to schedule a visit and let our team support your long-term oral health.