Cavities, What Are They?

A cavity is an area of cavitation in the tooth enamel (outer tooth structure) and dentin (inner tooth structure) caused by oral bacteria and acids. When sugars are consumed, they get converted into acids in the mouth, which then attack the enamel of the teeth. The acids slowly demineralize the outer structure of the teeth and leads to cavities over time. Cavities most commonly affect the deep grooves and fissures on the biting surfaces of the molars and the in-between surfaces of the teeth, which are both problematic areas to adequately clean. It is vital to catch cavities in their earliest stages, so minimally invasive treatment can be provided. Dental x-rays are an essential tool for diagnostic purposes and are used to catch cavities early before they are visible and start causing pain.