6 Common Areas to Get Cavities

We all want to hear the Dentist say, "great job with your home care, no cavities!" right? Well here are 6 common areas that cavities form. Pay extra close attention to these 6 areas and you are sure to have a more positive exam at your next visit.

1. In the grooves or pits on the chewing surface of the back teeth. There are many grooves, called fissures, and pits on the chewing surface as well as the sides of the back teeth that tend to hold bacteria.

2. Between your teeth.Typically teeth touch each other on each side except for the ones all the way in the back. It is difficult for a toothbrush to reach the tight spaces between teeth which is why we use floss to clean that area of the tooth. Plaque can easily grow and create a cavity in this area, especially if you are not flossing!

3. At the margins of Crowns, Bridges, or other dental work. The area between the restoration and the tooth may not be completely smooth leaving space for bacteria to grow and cause decay of the tooth.

4. On the tooth just above the gumline.  This is commonly seen in people who drink sports drinks, soda, or energy drinks. It's believed that the acids pool around the gumline and create decay on the tooth.

5. On the Roots of teeth. When suffering from Periodontal Disease which is more commonly known as Gum Disease, also the leading cause of tooth loss, the bone and gums surrounding the teeth falls away. The receding of the gums exposes the root of the tooth which has a softer surface making the area more susceptible to decay, this is why it is so important to catch and treat gum disease in it's initial phases.

6.Teeth right next to a Partial Denture. Food can easily find its way and get trapped between a partial denture and a natural tooth. If there is also a metal appliance that fits around the tooth this is the ideal breeding ground for plaque to form. It is important to maintain regular denture cleanings and checkups to ensure a healthy mouth.

There you have it, 6 common areas where cavities form. If you want to hear the words, ""great job with your home care, no cavities!" come out of the Dentists mouth at your next visit be sure to bring focus to these areas while brushing and flossing. If you would like to learn more about your dental health, well being, and for all of your dental needs call Glacier Dental, 920-235-3251. An experience to smile about!