Cavity Management in Kitchener, Ontario

Cavities are something that can be a big problem for both children and adults, and the treatment of tooth decay and cavities is central to Canadian dentistry. While cavities are a problem for both children and adults, recent studies focused on children shows that it is something that needs to be focused on early and maintained through adulthood.

In recent years, both the Ontario Dental Association and Toronto Public Health have noticed a backslide in the oral health of kids five and younger. In 2005-2006 it was found that over 14% of five-year-old kids had at least 2 teeth that had begun to decay -- a number up from under 10% six years earlier.

Signs of Cavities

Young children aren't the only ones who might develop cavities and not realize it. Many adults assume that getting a cavity means there is an obvious hole in a tooth which is accompanied by a lot of pain. While this can happen, tooth decay often doesn't start out that way. If tooth decay is only in the top layer of the tooth, there may be few actual symptoms.

How Cavities Start

Cavities start at the top layer of the tooth, the enamel, which is made up of primarily calcium phosphate and is the hardest part of the tooth.  After the decay eats through the enamel it reaches a layer called dentin, which is still a hard tissue, but when cavities reach this level the patient is more likely to feel more sensitivity and mild pain with their cavity. The real trouble comes if a cavity is allowed to progress enough to reach the next layer, called the pulp. This layer of the tooth is a living structure that includes nerves and blood vessels. At this point, it may not be enough to have a simple cavity filling, and instead, a root canal may be required.

Dealing with Cavities

Since cavities are not always noticed by the patient until they are more severe, keeping up with visits to the dentist is important. At Kitchener East Family Dental, our dentist treats a variety of patients of all ages, and our examinations are designed to identify early signs of decay and cavities before they become bigger problems. We can also instruct you on good oral hygiene, in order you to prevent as many cavities as possible and limit their progression. Brushing, flossing, and using an oral rinse are all good steps to keep most cavities at bay. In addition, avoiding sugary foods and soda will also help prevent problems. 

Contact Us Today

Cavities start out looking like black spots on your teeth, and are most often found on the back teeth or molars, but may be anywhere on your teeth, including between the teeth. If you feel pain or discomfort in your teeth or find that your teeth are extra sensitive, it may be a sign of a cavity or other problem. If this happens it is important to see your Kitchener, Ontario dentist as soon as possible, 

To schedule an appointment with Kitchener East Family Dental in Kitchener, Ontario contact us at (519) 578-2419.