What Is a Cavity? Common Signs of Tooth Decay

Cavities, though small, are far more than mere nuisances. They can wreak havoc on our teeth, causing pain and discomfort, and can lead to extensive dental treatments if left untreated.

Despite the many advances in dental care, cavities remain a significant oral health issue, affecting more than two billion people worldwide.¹ In fact, one out of every four adults in the U.S. currently has at least one cavity.² Luckily, there are at-home habits and professional treatments you can use to prevent, repair and — if needed — treat cavities.

What Is a Cavity?

A cavity is a hole in the tooth caused by decay of the hard outer surface known as the enamel. Also called dental caries or tooth decay, cavities can occur at any age. While some lifestyles may make a person more prone to cavities, healthy dental habits and good oral hygiene can help keep them at bay.³

Types of cavities

There are three main types of cavities: smooth surface, pit and fissure decay and root decay.³

1. Smooth surface cavities: These slow-growing cavities form on the smooth surface of teeth, most commonly between teeth where plaque can be harder to remove.³
2. Pit and fissure decay cavities: These cavities form on the top of a tooth where food and plaque can get caught in the pits and fissures of teeth like the molars.³
3. Root decay cavities: These cavities form on the root of the tooth and are more common in those with gum recession, which can expose the root to plaque.³

What Causes Cavities?

Cavities are caused when plaque builds up and remains on the teeth, leading to enamel damage.⁴

When we eat food, bacteria in our mouth converts sugars and starches into acid. This acid, combined with food particles and our saliva, turns into a sticky substance called plaque that sticks to our teeth and likes to hide along the gum line and between teeth.⁴

When we brush and floss, this plaque is disrupted and removed. However, if the plaque is not removed, it hardens and turns into tartar. The acid in plaque and tartar eat away at the enamel of the tooth, leading to decay and cavities.⁴

Five Stages of Tooth Decay

The formation of a cavity is part of a tooth decay process, which left untreated can impact all layers of the tooth.³

1. Demineralization

The breakdown of minerals in the enamel, called demineralization, can lead to small, white spots on the tooth.³

2. Enamel decay

The breakdown of the enamel can lead to brown spots and cavity holes appearing on the tooth.³

3. Dentin decay

Underneath the enamel is dentin, a softer interior layer of the tooth. Once a cavity reaches the dentin, it can progress more quickly and lead to tooth sensitivity.³

4. Pulp damage

The innermost layer of the tooth is the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, making it very sensitive. Spots on the teeth can turn dark brown — or even black — and gums will be swollen.³

5. Tooth abscess

An untreated cavity can lead to infection of the tooth's root, which can cause facial swelling and pain.³

What Increases the Risk of Cavities?

While some people are genetically prone to getting cavities, there are medical conditions, lifestyle choices and oral hygiene habits that can increase the risk of developing cavities:³

• Consuming sugary, starchy or sticky foods and drinks
• Snacking throughout the day
• Gum recession
• Dry mouth
• Family history of gum disease
• Not brushing or flossing
• Smoking⁵
• Heartburn⁶
• Eating disorders⁶

How Are Cavities Diagnosed?

While more advanced cavities can appear as brown or black spots,⁶ early cavities may be hard to see with the naked eye, especially if they are located on back molars or between teeth. Early cavities usually do not cause any pain and may only be caught during a dental exam or dental X-rays.⁴

Symptoms of more advanced tooth decay can include bad breath, a bad taste in the mouth, bleeding gums, toothaches or tooth sensitivity.³ If you are experiencing these symptoms, consider making an appointment with a dental professional for a comprehensive dental exam.

Cavity Treatment Costs

If you do get a cavity, there are a variety of treatment options to consider, depending on the severity and location of the cavity. Meet with a dental professional to review your treatment options.

The cost of treating a cavity can depend on a number of factors, including the treatment used, the specific tooth, material used, additional procedures required, geographic location and specific service provider.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Cavities

Fortunately, there are lifestyle and hygiene habits you can implement to reduce your risk of getting a cavity:⁶

• Brush your teeth twice a day.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste and/or mouthwash.
• Floss once a day.
• Reduce or remove sugary and starchy food and drinks.
• Avoid frequent snacking.
• Chew sugar-free gum.
• Get dental sealant on recommended teeth.
• Schedule dental checkups twice a year.

Combining multiple techniques can help dramatically cut down your chances of developing a cavity — and get it early treatment, if you do.

Dental Financing With the CareCredit Credit Card

Regular dental checkups are important to help prevent, identify and treat dental problems before they become more advanced. The CareCredit credit card can help you pay for dental exams, cosmetic dental procedures and other costs that insurance doesn't cover — to help you keep your pearly whites bright and healthy.* Apply today and use our Acceptance Locator to find a dentist near you that accepts CareCredit. Make the most of your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App. You can find a provider on the go, manage your CareCredit account and easily access the Well U hub for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

Author Bio

Kate Bayless is a health and wellness freelance writer with 15 years of experience. Her work has appeared in Parents, Women's Health, Beachbody and OpenFit.