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Difference Between A Cavity And Tooth Decay


Posted on 5/22/2023 by Team at Frank Dunlap
Difference Between A Cavity And Tooth DecayDespite their distinct meanings, "cavity" and "tooth decay" are sometimes used interchangeably. When you know the difference between a cavity and tooth decay, you can take better care of your teeth and gums and recognize when you need dental care.

How Is A Cavity Different From A tooth Decay


Plaque, a sticky layer of germs, may cause tooth decay, a bacterial infection. The acids plaque produces may slowly eat away at the protective enamel coating your teeth, eventually creating cavities. It may take some time for signs of tooth decay to become apparent. On the other hand, tooth decay causes a physical hole or pit to appear in the enamel surface of a tooth, which is referred to as a cavity. Poor dental hygiene, a diet heavy in sugar and carbs, and a lack of fluoride are only a few causes of cavities, which may range in size and severity.

Although cavities may be traced back to dental decay, it should be noted that not all cases of tooth decay result in cavities. Demineralization, seen as white patches on the tooth's surface, occurs in the early stages of decay. A filling is often unnecessary if these problems are detected and corrected in time.

Good dental hygiene, such as brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, and seeing your dentist once every six months, may help keep your teeth healthy and free from decay. You may get fluoride treatments and dental sealants from your dentist to further fortify and safeguard your teeth. Ultimately, cavities are caused by a bacterial infection known as tooth decay. Physical holes or pits in the tooth enamel surface caused by dental decay are called cavities.

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