How do dentists detect cavities?
Cavity, the scary word nobody wants to hear from their dentist.
Most of us want to believe the myth that only children, teens, and young adults suffer from cavities. Unfortunately this is far from true, and research has shown that adult tooth decay is Australia’s most common health problem –leading to a lack of confidence, tissue infections, discomfort, and pain.
What is a cavity?
In simple terms, a cavity appears when a tooth breaks down or decays. The cavity that we all know and hate is the space that remains once the decay has been removed by our dentist. Also known as dental caries, cavities are usually caused by plaque –a colorless film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and feels like sandpaper as you glide over it with your tongue.
The causes of cavities …show more content…
That’s the reason why dentists keep pushing us to brush and floss our teeth, in an attempt to remove plaque caused by deliciously unhealthy sugary foods that weaken tooth enamel. When the tooth slowly erodes due to our poor diet choices, cavities have an easier task of penetrating this once hard protective cover.
Where does the tooth experience cavities?
• On the biting surface. Usually caused by plaque which gets trapped between the crevices of your teeth, this is common in children who are not used to thoroughly brushing their teeth yet.

• Between teeth. Plaque between the teeth is a common occurrence -the area is hard to reach. Because of that, your toothbrush might not do the trick, and you’ll need to regularly floss your teeth.

• On the root surfaces. Typically associated with gum disease or periodontitis, this can happen once you get older and your gums shrink. This form of decay is also the most dangerous, as roots create the perfectly exposed environment for cavities to freely grown on.
How do dentists detect