How To Get Rid Of Cavities

• August 1, 2023
• Dr. Catherine-Anne Walsh

Understanding Cavities

When it comes to maintaining optimal dental health, the first step is understanding what you’re up against. In this latest blog post, we will explain how to get rid of cavities and provide an in-depth explanation of their causes and symptoms.

What Are Cavities?

Cavities, scientifically known as dental caries, are damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes. They are caused by a combination of factors, including bacteria in your mouth, frequent snacking, sipping sugary drinks, and not cleaning your teeth well. Over time, the decay process can affect both the outer coating of the tooth (known as tooth enamel) and the inner layer, leading to dental cavities.

What Causes Cavities in Teeth

Cavities are primarily caused by dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on our teeth. When we consume sugary foods and drinks, these bacteria produce acids that attack the tooth’s enamel. Over time, these repeated acid attacks can cause the enamel to break down, creating a hole or cavity.

Signs and Symptoms of Cavities

The signs and symptoms of cavities can vary depending on their extent and location. When a cavity is just beginning, you may not have any symptoms at all. As the decay gets larger, it may cause signs and symptoms such as toothache, tooth sensitivity, mild to sharp pain when eating or drinking, visible holes or pits in your teeth, and brown, black or white staining on any surface of a tooth.

Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is crucial in preventing cavities.

Preventive Measures Against Cavities

Prevention is better than cure, especially when it comes to cavities. Developing good oral hygiene habits, making wise food and drink choices, and visiting your dentist regularly can all help prevent tooth decay.

Importance of Oral Hygiene

Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is crucial in preventing cavities. This involves regular brushing with high-fluoride toothpaste, flossing and using mouthwash. Brushing removes the dental plaque that leads to cavities. Fluoride toothpaste is especially beneficial as it can strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay.

Diet and Nutrition: Key to a Healthy Mouth

Your diet plays a pivotal role in preventing tooth decay. Limiting the intake of sugary foods and drinks can significantly reduce your risk of developing cavities. It’s also important to include teeth-friendly foods in your diet, such as those high in calcium and phosphorus, to further protect your teeth.

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Visiting a dentist regularly for cleanings and examinations is an essential preventive measure. Only a dental professional can thoroughly remove accumulated plaque, spot early signs of cavities and provide treatments like fluoride treatments that help reverse cavities in their early stages.

Professional Dental Treatments for Cavities

If despite your best efforts, you find yourself dealing with cavities, there’s no need to panic. There are several professional dental treatments for treating cavities, from fillings and crowns to root canals.

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are the most common treatment for tooth cavities. Once the dentist removes the decayed tooth material, the area is cleaned and then filled with a filling material such as porcelain, composite resin, or amalgam.

Crowns for Larger Cavities

When a cavity is too large for a filling, a crown might be the best option. Crowns are
custom-fitted coverings that replace the tooth’s natural crown. They seal off the damage and protect your tooth from further decay.

Root Canal for Severe Cavities

For severe cavities that have reached the tooth’s pulp (the centre of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels), a root canal may be necessary. Root canals involve removing the damaged pulp, cleaning and shaping the inside of the tooth, and then filling and sealing the space.

Don’t let cavities ruin your smile. Contact us today if you suspect you may be suffering from a cavity.

The Role of Lifestyle Changes in Cavity Prevention

Beyond diet and dental hygiene, making certain lifestyle changes can also significantly reduce your risk of developing cavities. This includes quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and maintaining a regular exercise routine.

Quit Smoking for Oral Health

Smoking and other tobacco products can lead to a host of dental problems, including cavities. The chemicals in tobacco can damage your teeth and gums, reducing their ability to fight off a cavity.

Limit Alcohol and Sugary Drinks

Excessive alcohol and sugary drink consumption can increase your risk of cavities by creating an acid-rich environment in your mouth that is conducive to tooth decay. Consider switching to sugar-free alternatives and water.

Exercise and Oral Health

Regular physical activity boosts overall health, including your oral health. Exercise can enhance your immune system, helping your body fight off potential infections and diseases, including tooth decay. Plus, those who exercise regularly are more likely to maintain other healthy habits, like brushing and flossing regularly, which can further protect against cavities.

How to contact us at our Sydney CBD clinic

Day Time +61292333399
After Hours 0406986909
Email Us: info@thedentist.net.au

1/70 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Mon & Thu: 8 am-7 pm
Tue, Wed & Fri: 8 am-5 pm
Saturday: 8 am-1 pm
Sunday: Closed

BOOK APPOINTMENT

FAQs

Below you can find our FAQs about how to get rid of cavities. Contact us for more information about any of our procedures, or use the online form above to book an appointment.

Can a cavity go away on its own?

In the early stages, before a cavity has formed, tooth decay can be stopped or even reversed. This process involves the enamel re-mineralizing, aided by saliva and fluoride. However, once a cavity has formed, it cannot heal or disappear on its own and will need professional dental treatment.

How can I remove a cavity from my teeth at home?

Cavities are a result of tooth decay that has caused permanent damage. You can’t remove a cavity at home. The decayed part of the tooth needs to be removed and replaced with a filling by a dental professional. Home remedies can help prevent further decay, but they can’t eliminate existing cavities.

How do you get rid of cavities ASAP?

The quickest way to get rid of a cavity is to visit a dentist as soon as possible. They can remove the decayed part of your tooth and fill the cavity. Regular check-ups can help catch cavities early before they cause pain and further complications. In the meantime, maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent further decay.

Can cavities go away without filling?

No, once a cavity has formed, it will not go away without treatment. The decay must be removed by a dental professional and the cavity should be filled to prevent further decay. Without treatment, the cavity can deepen, causing pain and potentially leading to more serious issues, such as a root canal or tooth extraction.

Please note that any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

New Patient Offer

1st Visit comprehensive Examination, Check-up, Teeth Cleaning for New Patients

Pay Only $380 – Save $177 (regular price: $557)
(including Full exam, images, x-rays, clean, polish and fluoride treatment)

• Comprehensive Oral Examination and Consult ($110)
• 2x bite-wing x-rays ($88)
• 1x Dental Panoramic OPG x-ray ($110)
• Comprehensive Scale & Clean ($221)
• Fluoride treatment ($28)

GET THE SPECIAL PRICE NOW