Cavities are formed from tooth decay that wears through the outer layer of your tooth (enamel). Once the decay reaches the softer, inner layers of your tooth (dentin), it creates the holes that are known as cavities. If left without treatment, a cavity can begin to spread and infect other parts of your inner tooth – such as the nerve (pulp). As the infection progresses, it becomes more difficult to save the tooth and more invasive procedures are needed. For this reason, early detection of tooth decay and cavities is extremely important. Luckily, with your dentists help, you’ll be able to catch your infection as soon as possible.
Using DIAGNOdent
As technology advances, so does the dental industry. Knowing that early detection is critical when preventing and treating cavities, a pen-shaped laser was created that uses fluorescence to uncover the earliest stages of decay – known as DIAGNOdent.
Tooth decay is caused from an acid that forms when the plaque on your teeth comes into contact with sugars (from foods or drinks you consume). This acid demineralizes the enamel on your teeth – which is where DIAGNOdent comes in. Before this decay progresses, DIAGNOdent uses fluorescence to indicate any affected areas so your dentist is able to treat it as soon as possible.
Visit Your Dentist
Now that you know how your dentist can catch your cavities before they form, all you have to do is remember to keep visiting your dentist regularly. This often means every 6 months – however, there are many circumstances that could affect how frequent your dentist wants to check and clean your teeth. For instance, if you’re prone to bacteria, your dentist will likely want to see you back sooner in order to avoid infection.
If you haven’t visited your dentist in the last 6 months, don’t hesitate to call today! Remember; the sooner you can catch a cavity, the easier (and less invasive) your treatment will be.
