Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

Have a Cavity?

Tuesday, June 09, 2009

So You Have A Cavity

You came in for your exam and check up and we found a cavity. Of course you made your appointment to have it restored, but do you really know what a cavity is?

A cavity is really dental caries which is a bacterial disease process that damages hard tooth structure. The bacteria invade the enamel, cementum and dentin. These are the layers of the tooth, starting from the outside--enamel and progressing to the inside; dentin.

The two types of bacteria that cause cavities are Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli. These are acid producing bacteria that can cause damage to the tooth when fermentable carbohydrates are present. Fermentable carbohydrates are sucrose, fructose, and glucose. (In plain terms most forms of sugars.) All cavities occur when carbohydrates and sugars or starch in the foods we eat are left on our teeth after meals or snacks. This results in decay.

More than 95% of trapped food is left packed between teeth after your meals. However, 80% of cavities develop on the biting surface of your teeth. The biting surface is irregular and this is where most decay occurs.

So what can you do? Follow Katherine and Shari's dental hygiene tips and instructions. Also, see them on a regular three to four month recall so an examination of the biting surface can be done. Any cavities will then be found when they are small and easy to restore. Remember, the longer the cavity is left undetected, the bigger and harder it is to fill and the costlier for you.

Call us today to schedule an appointment with Katherine or Shari. Ask them about how you can prevent cavities. You'll be glad you did! We can be reached at 561-394-9000.

Faith Tracey, R.D.H., B.S.

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.