Yes, cavities can permanently damage teeth.
Understanding Cavities
Cavities, also known as tooth decay, are holes in the hard outer layer of your teeth, called enamel. These holes form when bacteria in your mouth produce acids that eat away at the enamel.
The Impact of Cavities
- Enamel Loss: Cavities cause irreversible enamel loss, which weakens the tooth.
- Dentin Exposure: Once enamel is gone, the softer layer beneath, called dentin, is exposed. Dentin is more sensitive to hot, cold, and sweet foods.
- Pulp Damage: If a cavity progresses, it can reach the tooth's pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. This can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss.
Preventing Cavities
- Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
- Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
- Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks: Sugar feeds the bacteria that cause cavities.
Repairing Cavities
- Fillings: Dentists use fillings to repair cavities by removing the decayed portion of the tooth and replacing it with a filling material.
- Crowns: For larger cavities or weakened teeth, a crown may be necessary. A crown is a cap that covers the entire tooth.
While cavities can cause permanent damage, early detection and treatment can prevent further damage and save your teeth.
