A buildup of plaque and the creation acids caused by a bad diet and poor oral hygiene can have a negative effect on your tooth enamel. As the persistent acidic environment continues to erode the mineral density of your teeth, you could be at increased risk of suffering a cavity.

Early symptoms of tooth decay often include increased sensitivity and discomfort, or a change in the tooth’s surface texture. Some cavities can also cause a change in color in the affected area. If you have noticed any of these symptoms with one of your teeth, you need to have it examined by our dentist, Dr. Jason Barth. With timely diagnosis and treatment, a small cavity might be remedied by a basic dental filling. To place a filling, the dentists will numb the tooth before carefully removing all traces of demineralized tooth enamel. At this point they will apply either composite resin, metal or amalgam. Then they will harden and secure it to the healthy tooth enamel with a special ultraviolet light.
You might want to make a concentrated effort to brush your teeth twice each day and floss once each evening. You should also double check to make sure that all your oral care products have been approved by the American Dental Association.

If you live in the Salina, Kansas, area and you suspect a cavity has developed on one of your teeth, you need to call 785-823-2472 as soon as possible to have it examined and treated at Salina Dental Arts.