When most people hear the word “cavity,” they think of a hole or opening in the surface of a tooth. But is it also possible to have a cavity that starts on the inside of a tooth? The simple answer is that dental caries—commonly known as cavities—start on the outside of teeth. However, there are...
According to the CDC, 90 percent of adults over 20 years old have had a cavity in a permanent tooth. Once a tooth has a cavity, decay must be removed to prevent further deterioration. The common fix is a dental filling. While fillings are considered a permanent solution to cavities, they will eventually wear out,...
Most people think that toothaches and cavities go together. While they often do, some cavities hurt very little or not at all—at first. Likewise, a tooth can experience pain without a cavity. Any cavity, whether it hurts a little, a lot, or not at all, should be taken seriously and fixed as soon as possible....
Dental sealants are a safe and effective way to prevent cavities for kids. But are they just for kids? After all, tooth decay can still happen at any age. Why shouldn’t adults get dental sealants, too? Instead of asking “can adults get sealants?” (the short answer: They can), a more relevant question is whether the...
Dental crowns are an effective tool in restoring damaged or decayed teeth. Even though crowns are not expected to last forever, patients might assume they no longer need to worry about getting a cavity in the crowned tooth. Unfortunately, it is possible to get cavities under a dental crown. And just like cavities anywhere else...
Dental fillings are the most common and safest treatments for tooth decay. When getting a filling, some minor pain and tooth sensitivity is normal. The pain usually goes away after a few hours, though, but sensitivity to hot and cold liquids might last up to a week. But what if there is severe pain after...
No one expects to get a cavity, even though they are common in both kids and adults. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that about 46% of kids between the ages of 2 and 19 have cavities and 13% have ones that are untreated. 92% of adults 20 to 64 years old have...
A cavity, simply put, is a hole in a tooth. In the early stages, a cavity may resemble an innocent white spot. But when left untreated, that cavity may cause more serious dental issues. Can cavities go away on their own? Unfortunately, no. A “Hole” Lot of Trouble Although many of us do our best...
It is natural for people to have questions about any substance that is put into their body, and dental fillings are no exception. Some publications have raised concerns about the materials used in some fillings. Is there any cause for concern? And if so, which dental fillings are safest? The most recent research indicates that...
In almost all cases, a dental filling is the best solution for a cavity caused by tooth decay. Once the procedure is done, patients are often surprised to still have some sensitivity or even pain. This is normal—to a degree. But if sensitivity is extreme or lasts too long, it could mean there is a...