How does dental caries differ from dental cavities?
Do you know the difference between dental “caries” and dental “cavities”? While these words are often used interchangeably, there is a difference in their meanings. However, whether we’re talking about caries or cavities, good dental health is important to every member of the family.
What Is Caries?
Caries is the scientific word we used to describe tooth decay. Caries is a disease that results from decay-forming bacteria. This process occurs when the mouth’s bacteria begins feeding on the sugar found in the food that you eat. The bacteria then produce acids that will leach the minerals from your healthy teeth. As your teeth’s mineral levels begin to decline, you can see white patches at the locations where your teeth’s enamel has become weaker. At that point, tooth decay has begun. Fortunately, if caught in time, the damage to the teeth can possibly be reversed with the use of remineralisation treatments.
Tooth decay occurs when the tooth’s structure breaks down. As this process progresses, the tooth enamel is damaged, which exposes the tooth’s dentin. This is the mineral which lies between the tooth’s enamel and pulp. One established, the decay process will continue until it’s usually stopped by a filling.
What is a cavity?
The word cavity is most commonly used by American dentists, and most Australian's have heard this term from TV and movies. In an American context, it is used to describe the presence of caries or tooth decay. But technically, a cavity is simply a hole that has been formed in the tooth. For example, a broken filling or a chipped tooth may cause a cavity. Therefore, you can have a cavity without caries.
What happens if the caries becomes very large?
As caries progresses, or if a cavity is deep and close to the tooth pulp, a toothache can occur. In time, the pulp will die and an abscess may develop. At this point, a root canal or removal of the tooth may become necessary.
Prevention and treatment
Some of the things that will cause caries can include; sugary drinks/food and the lack of proper dental hygiene. Regular brushing (at least twice a day) and flossing are encouraged in order to prevent caries. When brushing, fluoride toothpaste is recommended.
In very early stages, remineralisation can be used to treat tooth decay issues. But, in more advanced cases, a filling or crown may be necessary if there has been structural damage to the tooth.
If you have any concerns about dental caries or dental cavities book a book a consultation with Dr Kate Amos or Dr Sam Rosehill at Ethical Dental on 6652 3185 or book online. To learn more about dental cavities caries and cavities check out our articles 'What are the Symptoms of Dental Caries?' and 'Do Dental X-Rays Show All Types of Cavities?'.
