A cavity is a hole in your tooth caused by tooth decay. Bacteria in plaque produce acids that erode enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth. Over time, these holes grow larger, forming cavities.
To prevent cavities, brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, visit your dentist regularly, limit sugary foods and drinks, drink plenty of water, and consider fluoride treatments. Early cavity detection and treatment are essential to prevent further damage.
Is tooth decay the same as cavities?
No, tooth decay and cavities are not the same, but they are closely related.
- Tooth decay is the process by which bacteria in your mouth produce acids that erode the enamel of your teeth. It’s the initial stage of the problem.
- Cavities are the actual holes or openings that form in your teeth as a result of tooth decay.
So, tooth decay is the cause, and cavities are the effect.
This information was mostly provided by Gemini AI, a digital mind and language model.
