How do cavities form? Why do we get them?
Cavities happen when the hard outer layer of your tooth, called enamel, starts to break down. This damage is caused by bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria feed on the sugars and starches from the food and drinks you consume. As they do, they produce acid. Over time, this acid wears away the enamel and creates holes in the tooth—what we call cavities. The process starts when plaque, a sticky film made of bacteria and food particles, builds up on your teeth. If it’s not removed by brushing and flossing, it can harden and trap bacteria close to the tooth. The longer plaque stays, the more acid is produced. This constant acid attack slowly eats away at the enamel. Once a cavity forms, it can grow deeper and affect the inner parts of the tooth, which can lead to pain, infection, or even tooth loss if not treated. Cavities are more likely to form if you don’t brush and floss regularly, if you eat or drink a lot of sugary or acidic things, or if your mouth doesn’t make enough saliva to wash away food and bacteria. Some people are also more prone to cavities because of the shape of their teeth or genetics. The good news is that cavities are preventable. Good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and regular visits to the dentist can help keep your teeth strong and healthy. If you’re feeling any sensitivity or discomfort, it’s always best to get checked early. We’re here to help you keep your smile cavity-free.
What to expect at your filling appointment
First, we’ll start by making sure you’re comfortable. We’ll numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic so you won’t feel any pain during the treatment. If you’re feeling nervous, let us know—we’re here to help you feel at ease every step of the way.
Once the area is numb, we’ll gently remove the decayed part of the tooth. This step is important to stop the cavity from getting worse. After cleaning the area, we’ll place a tooth colored filling material to seal and rebuild the tooth. We use high-quality composite fillings that blend in naturally with your smile.
After the filling is placed, we’ll shape and polish it so your bite feels normal and smooth. The whole process usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many teeth are being treated.
You might feel a little numb for a few hours after your visit, but you can return to your normal activities right away. Some patients feel slight sensitivity for a day or two, which is normal and goes away on its own. Getting a filling is an easy way to protect your tooth and avoid more serious dental problems later on. If you have any questions before or after your visit, we’re always happy to help.