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Home › What Causes Cavities?

What Causes Cavities?
Posted on 1/1/2025 by NC Pediatric Dentisty

Young girl holding her cheek in discomfort while sitting in a dental chair, indicating a potential cavity.Cavities are holes in your teeth caused by decay. Tooth decay happens when bacteria in your mouth turn sugars and starches into acid. This acid attacks the enamel, which is the hard outer layer of your teeth. Over time, this acid can wear away the enamel and create a hole in your tooth.


What are the causes of cavities?



There are many factors that can contribute to cavities, including:

•  Sugary foods and drinks: Foods and drinks that are high in sugar, such as candy, soda, and juice, are a major cause of cavities. The bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and produce acid, which can damage your teeth.
•  Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly allows bacteria to build up on your teeth. This bacteria can then produce acid and cause cavities.
•  Not getting enough fluoride: Fluoride is a mineral that can help strengthen your teeth and make them more resistant to decay. Fluoride is found in many sources, including toothpaste, mouthwash, and water.
•  Dry mouth: Dry mouth can increase your risk of cavities because it reduces the amount of saliva in your mouth. Saliva helps to wash away food particles and bacteria, and it also contains minerals that can help to strengthen your teeth.
•  Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes and eating disorders, can increase your risk of cavities. These conditions can affect the amount of saliva in your mouth, and they can also make it harder for your body to fight off bacteria.


How can I prevent cavities?



There are many things you can do to prevent cavities, including:

•  Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush for at least two minutes each time.
•  Floss your teeth once a day. Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
•  Eat a healthy diet that is low in sugar. Choose foods that are high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
•  Drink plenty of water. Water helps to wash away food particles and bacteria from your mouth.
•  Get regular dental checkups. Your dentist can check for cavities and other dental problems, and they can also clean your teeth and apply fluoride.


What are the signs and symptoms of cavities?



The signs and symptoms of cavities can vary depending on the severity of the decay. Early cavities may not cause any symptoms. However, as the cavity gets larger, you may experience:

•  Toothache

•  Sensitivity to hot and cold

•  Pain when biting or chewing

•  A visible hole in the tooth

•  A brown, black, or white spot on the tooth


What should I do if I think I have a cavity?



If you think you have a cavity, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist can diagnose the cavity and recommend the best course of treatment. Treatment for cavities may include fillings, crowns, or root canals.


Conclusion



Cavities are a common dental problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. However, there are many things you can do to prevent cavities and keep your teeth healthy. By following the tips above, you can reduce your risk of developing cavities and keep your smile looking its best.

Smiles from ear-to-ear with locations from here-to-here.


Our community of dentistry superheroes prioritizes smiles above all else—theirs AND yours. That’s why we make it easy to find the location that’s right for you. Learn what to expect for your first visit, virtually tour the space, meet the dentists, and discover location-specific specialties and resources below.


Advance Pediatric Dentistry


135 Medical Drive
Advance, NC
(743) 259-8887

Afton Pediatric Dentistry


5641 Poplar Tent Rd. Suite 201
Concord, NC
(980) 291-4013

Caldwell Pediatric Dentistry


210 Willow Street NW
Lenoir, NC
(828) 383-0322

Denver Pediatric Dentistry


275 NC-16 Business Suite 204B
Denver, NC
(980) 303-5083

Dunn Pediatric Dentistry


711 Tilghman Drive
Dunn, NC
(910) 984-0026

Fuquay Pediatric Dentistry


401 Attain Street Suite 111
Fuquay-Varina, NC
(984) 313-4086

Hickory Grove Pediatric Dentistry


5708 North Sharon Amity Rd. Suite 5708a
Charlotte, NC
(980) 369-2014

Huntersville Pediatric Dentistry


9625 Northcross Center Ct. Suite 101
Huntersville, NC
(980) 306-6635

Locust Pediatric Dentistry


236 Market Street Suite 200
Locust, NC
(980) 354-0784

Mebane Pediatric Dentistry


1107 S. Fifth St. # 100
Mebane, NC
(984) 290-5016

Mint Hill Pediatric Dentistry


9055 Cresswind Blvd. Suite 104
Charlotte, NC
(980) 369-2032

Mooresville Pediatric Dentistry


202 Williamson Rd. Suite 200
Mooresville, NC
(980) 455-4053

Salisbury Pediatric Dentistry


140 Mahaley Avenue Suite B
Salisbury, NC
(980) 305-5002

Shelby Pediatric Dentistry


221 Simpson Park Rd.
Shelby, NC
(980) 436-2483

Sherrills Ford Pediatric Dentistry


7856 Village Center N Suite 200
Sherrills Ford, NC
(980) 291-9087

Statesville Pediatric Dentistry


1454 Fern Creek Drive
Statesville, NC
(980) 391-2407





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