What is Tooth Cavity and What is Gum Disease?
Tooth cavities and gum disease are two of the most common oral health issues faced by people of all ages. They may start small and painless, but both conditions can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated. So, what are these two exactly?
Let’s find out more about what cavities and gum disease are, their causes, and how you can prevent them. Getting to know these dental problems can help you do something now before it becomes too late—and expensive—to treat.
What is a Tooth Cavity?
Food is a necessity in our lives, and as Australians, we love to have BBQs and drinks often with our friends and families. But one thing we have to take note of is that our teeth will always react to the food we eat, especially in the hard to clean areas of our mouth like in between the teeth. That is where the tooth cavity comes in.
A tooth cavity, also called dental caries, is a hole in your tooth caused by tooth decay. Cavities in teeth happen when harmful bacteria in your mouth produce acids that eat away at the protective enamel on your teeth.
If this decay is left untreated for a long time, it can lead and progress deeper into the tooth. Cavities always start small but the longer they are left untreated, the more it rots away the tooth causing more and more severe damage (and more costly treatment).
How Do Teeth Cavities Form?
Cavities form through a process that begins with plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. Here’s how it happens:
- Plaque Formation:
Plaque forms on teeth, especially in areas that are hard to reach when brushing, such as between teeth. - Sugars Feed Bacteria:
When you eat or drink sugary foods, the bacteria in your mouth feed on those sugars and create acids. - Acids Attack Enamel:
When these acids start to form and live in your mouth, they weaken and dissolve the tooth enamel, which will then create tiny holes. This early stage is known as demineralisation. - Plaque Goes Unremoved:
If the plaque isn’t adequately removed by your daily cleaning routine, the plaque and acids stick around, which would cause further damage to your teeth. - Cavity Gets Worse:
Over time, when the damage deepens, the cavity also becomes larger by the day. When you don’t take action right away, your cavities may lead to pain, visible dark spots, or even tooth loss if untreated.
Signs of a Tooth Cavity
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Visible holes or dark spots on the tooth surface.
- Persistent toothache.
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
Preventing and Treating Teeth Cavities
Prevention Tips:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks.
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
Treatment Options:
If your dentist has diagnosed that you already have a cavity, they may recommend treatments such as remineralising agents, fillings, crowns, or root canals, depending on how severe your decay is. These treatments may be able to stop decay from forming, which will keep your teeth healthy.
What is Gum Disease?
Now, let’s talk about gums and gum disease. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gum and bone that holds your teeth in place. It often starts with mild inflammation called gingivitis but can progress to more serious stages if you continue to ignore it.
Gum disease may not hurt at first, but the sad thing about it is it can lead to tooth loss and other complications if left untreated.
How Does Gum Disease Happen?
Naturally, healthy gums are supported by strong bones and fit snugly around your teeth. However, when plaque builds up in between your teeth, it’s like hitting two birds with one stone as it sets off a chain reaction that damages both your gums and teeth:
- Plaque turns to Tartar:
When plaque is not cleaned away regularly, it hardens into tartar—and tartar becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. - Bacteria Invade Below the Gums:
These bacteria move under your gumline, causing swelling and infection. This is where gum disease really begins. - Gums Pull Away from Teeth:
As the infection worsens, your gums start to pull back from your teeth, forming pockets where even more bacteria can gather. - Bone and Gum Deterioration:
Over time, the bacteria damage the bone and gums that hold your teeth in place. Without enough support, your teeth may become loose or fall out.
Signs You Might Have Gum Disease
As mentioned earlier, gum disease doesn’t always come with pain, so it’s important to watch out for warning signs, such as:
- Gums that are swollen, red, or tender.
- Bleeding when you brush or floss.
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
- Receding gums, making your teeth look longer.
- Loose teeth or a change in how they fit together.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to see a dentist right away for an evaluation.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is usually caused by poor oral hygiene, but other factors can also play a role. Here are some common causes:
- Poor Oral Care: Not brushing and flossing enough allows plaque to build up.
- Smoking: Tobacco weakens your gums and makes it harder for them to heal.
- Health Conditions: Diseases like diabetes can make you more prone to gum problems.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and other hormonal shifts can make your gums more sensitive the destruction caused by gum disease.
- Family History: Genetics may also increase your risk of developing gum disease.
READ MORE: The Connection of Preventative Dentistry and Overall Health
What Can You Do About Gum Disease?
The good news is that gum disease can be treated and even prevented with the right care. Plus, these tips are not even that advanced or costly! Here’s how you can do it:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily and use interdental brushes and floss daily. Cleaning in between your teeth before brushing is essential to preventing gum disease.
- Quit Smoking: Giving up tobacco can significantly improve your gum health.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Nutrient-rich foods help keep your gums strong.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Professional cleanings can remove tartar and stop gum disease from progressing.
If you already have gum disease and it has progressed, your dentist may need to perform a deep cleaning or other procedures to remove the plaque and tartar beneath your gums. As we would say in the dental world, acting early is key to saving your teeth and protecting your smile.
Saving Your Teeth for Better Days to Come!
Teeth cavities and gum disease are two of the most common dental problems, but they’re also preventable with proper care and timely intervention. Learning about their causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you become more prepared and mindful when protecting your oral health.
And if you’re ready for a dental clean, Whitehorse Dental is here to help you get your teeth in better shape!
At Whitehorse Dental, we’re here to support your journey to a healthier smile. If you’re concerned about cavities or gum disease, book an appointment with our friendly team today.
