Dental Conditions
Cavities & tooth decay
A cavity is permanent damage where decay has opened a hole in the enamel. Common, largely preventable, and treatable with a simple filling when caught early.
How decay actually happens
Bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and starches and produce acid as a by-product. That acid dissolves mineral out of the enamel. Do it often enough, and the enamel eventually gives way.
Plaque is the film those bacteria live in. Left undisturbed, it holds acid against the tooth surface continuously rather than in brief episodes — which is why how often you eat sugar matters more than how much.
Risk rises with frequent sugary snacking, inconsistent cleaning, dry mouth, receding gums exposing root surfaces, and old dental work that has begun to leak at the margins.
Signs of decay
Early — No Symptoms At All
Early cavities are silent. They are found by visual examination and digital imaging, not by how a tooth feels. This is the entire argument for regular exams.
Progressing — Sensitivity
Sensitivity to cold, heat, or sweetness as the decay approaches the dentine beneath the enamel.
Visible Change
Discolouration, a dark spot, or a visible hole — by which point the cavity is usually well established.
Pain
Mild to moderate toothache, or pain on biting. Once a cavity hurts consistently, the nerve is often involved and the treatment escalates.
Common questions
How are cavities treated? +
Small cavities are restored with a filling. Larger damage may need a crown. If decay has reached the nerve, root canal therapy is needed to save the tooth.
Why does early detection matter so much? +
A filling is a short, inexpensive appointment. The same cavity two years later can mean a root canal and a crown — a considerably larger intervention for the same tooth.
How do I prevent cavities? +
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth daily, reduce how frequently you eat sugar, and attend regular exams.
How long do fillings last? +
Composite fillings typically last ten to twelve years, longer depending on size, location, and your habits.
How often should I be examined? +
Twice yearly for most patients. Higher-risk patients benefit from more frequent visits.
Concerned about your symptoms?
Book an exam. We prioritise early detection and conservative treatment that preserves natural tooth structure. Call (905) 479-7777.