Dental Cavities

Welcome to Mountain West Family Dental, your trusted dental care provider in Highlands Ranch, CO. Our dental team is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. One of the most common dental issues we treat is dental cavities. On this page, we provide essential information about cavities, their prevention, and how we can help you manage and treat them.

What Are Cavities?

Dental cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes. They are caused by a combination of factors, including bacteria in your mouth, frequent snacking, sugary drinks, and inadequate cleaning of your teeth. If left untreated, cavities can lead to severe toothache, infection, and even tooth loss.

How Cavities Form

Cavities form when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth. Over time, these acids can erode the enamel, creating dental cavities. The process can be accelerated by factors such as poor oral hygiene, a diet high in sugar and starches, and dry mouth.

Symptoms of Cavities

Cavities may not always cause noticeable symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, as they progress, you may experience:

• Toothache or tooth pain: This may occur spontaneously or when you eat something sweet, hot, or cold.
• Visible holes or pits in your teeth.
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
• Staining on the surface of a tooth, appearing as brown, black, or white spots.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule an appointment with us at Mountain West Family Dental as soon as possible.

Preventing Dental Cavities

Preventing cavities is all about maintaining good oral hygiene and making smart choices about your diet and lifestyle. Here are some tips to help keep your teeth healthy:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline.
• Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can contribute to tooth decay.
• Drink plenty of water, especially after eating, to help wash away food particles and bacteria.
• Visit Mountain West Family Dental regularly for dental checkups and cleanings. Our team can help catch cavities early and provide guidance on how to improve your oral health.

Treatment Options for Tooth Cavities

At Mountain West Family Dental, we offer several effective treatments for cavities, depending on the severity of the decay:

• Fluoride Treatments: For early-stage cavities, fluoride treatments can help restore your tooth’s enamel and may reverse the decay in its early stages.
• Fillings: When a cavity has progressed beyond the initial stage, a filling is the most common treatment. We remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the space with a durable material to restore its function and appearance.
• Dental Crowns: If the decay is extensive and has weakened the tooth, a crown may be necessary. A dental crown is a custom-made covering that fits over the entire tooth to protect it and restore its shape and size.
• Root Canals: If the cavity reaches the inner pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be needed to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.
• Tooth Extractions: In cases where the tooth is too damaged to be saved, we may recommend an extraction. Afterward, we can discuss options for replacing the missing tooth, such as dental implants or bridges.

Why Choose Mountain West Family Dental?

At Mountain West Family Dental, we are committed to providing personalized, high-quality dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Our experienced team uses the latest techniques and technology to ensure that your cavity treatment is as effective and pain-free as possible. We believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their oral health.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you suspect you have a cavity or are due for a routine checkup, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with Mountain West Family Dental in Highlands Ranch, CO today. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to help you maintain a healthy, cavity-free smile.