Cavities | « Education Center

Cavities are “holes” that form on the enamel surface of the teeth made by bacteria.  Bacteria living in the mouth feed on the carbohydrates and sugars from foods and drinks and release acid as a by-product.  These acids (plaque) if left on the teeth will start to breakdown the enamel of the tooth.  Once a cavity starts it will continue to grow until it is removed by your dentist and replaced with a filling.

If the cavity is only in the enamel (outer layer of the tooth) there usually is not any pain.  If left untreated, the cavity will grow and reach the next layer called the dentin, which can cause some pain or sensitivity to cold or sweet foods.

If the cavity is left untreated until it reaches the pulp (nerve of the tooth) then there will be pain and discomfort which requires a visit to the dentist to resolve.