Will Cavities heal? How are Cavities treated? These questions can keep you up at night if you’re facing a toothache, and you don’t know what to do. Read on to find out what to do if you think you have a cavity!
Once a Cavity Forms- It Doesn’t Go Away
A cavity is a hole in the enamel of your teeth. Once the enamel is worn through it cannot be replaced or healed. So in that sense, once you have a cavity it cannot be healed, and it must be treated, or it may get worse, and the treatment can be more involved. So if you think you have a cavity, don’t wait, call your dentist to make an appointment.
You Can Strengthen Your Enamel
While cavities cannot be healed, your tooth enamel can be strengthened and cavities can be prevented. Eating a healthy diet with plenty of vitamins and minerals is a good start to healthy strong teeth. Another option is drinking fluoridated water, which most cities have in their water supply, and using fluoridated products such as an ADA approved toothpaste, or a therapeutic mouthwash. To receive the full effects of the fluoride in your toothpaste, do avoid rinsing your mouth out with water directly after brushing your teeth. Instead spit out excess toothpaste, and allow the residue on your teeth to work at keeping your enamel strong and healthy! If you are still worried, talk to your dentist about fluoride treatments for you and your children, and whether or not you are good candidates for these treatments. If you’re still wondering if cavities will heal, even though they cannot, you can do your best to keep your enamel strong and healthy!
Treatment for Cavities is Common and Safe
Although the question “will cavities heal?” has been ruled out, there are safe treatments for cavities commonly used with success. Treatment for a cavity can include a dentist cleaning out the cavity, clearing away any decayed matter, and filling the tooth with a safe substance. Talk to your dentist if you want to know more about how this treatment is completed and what your options are. Having a filling in a cavity is a safe treatment that prevents further need for treatments down the road, and if done early enough may prevent more involved treatments like root canals.
Call our Pacific dental office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.