Understanding Cavities and How to Prevent Them

Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, affecting people of all ages. Also known as tooth decay, cavities can develop quietly and cause major damage if left untreated. At Maddali Dental, we help patients in Union and Parsippany NJ prevent and treat cavities with gentle, effective care.

What Is a Cavity?

A cavity is a small hole that forms in your tooth when bacteria in your mouth break down enamel — the hard outer layer of the tooth. This happens when sugars and starches from food mix with oral bacteria and create acid. Over time, that acid erodes the enamel and leads to tooth decay.

Cavities can start small, but if ignored, they can grow larger and affect deeper layers of the tooth, leading to pain, infection, and even tooth loss.

Common Signs of a Cavity

You may not always feel a cavity at first, but here are some symptoms to watch for:

• Sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods

• Pain when biting or chewing

• Visible holes or dark spots on a tooth

• Toothache or sudden pain without cause

• Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

If you experience any of these signs, schedule a dental exam right away.

What Causes Cavities?

Cavities are caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Poor oral hygiene

• High-sugar or high-acid diet

• Not flossing between teeth

• Dry mouth or low saliva

• Bacteria buildup from plaque

• Skipping dental cleanings and checkups

Even people with good brushing habits can develop cavities if they are not flossing or seeing their dentist regularly.

How Cavities Are Treated

At Maddali Dental, we treat cavities based on their size and severity. Most cavities can be treated with a dental filling, where the decayed part of the tooth is removed and replaced with a tooth-colored material.

If a cavity is deeper and affects the inner pulp of the tooth, a root canal or crown may be needed.

The earlier we catch a cavity, the easier and more affordable it is to treat.

Preventing Cavities: Tips That Work

The best treatment is prevention. Here are 5 simple ways to avoid cavities:

1. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

2. Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth

3. Limit sugary snacks and drinks

4. Visit the dentist every 6 months for cleanings and exams

5. Drink water to rinse away food and neutralize acids

We also recommend dental sealants for children and teens, which protect the back molars where cavities are most likely to form.

Gentle Cavity Care at Maddali Dental

If you think you have a cavity or it has been a while since your last checkup, we are here to help. Maddali Dental provides expert cavity care in a calm, professional setting. Whether you need a routine filling or advanced treatment, our team in Union and Parsippany NJ will make sure your smile stays strong and healthy.

📍 Union: 908-851-9292

📍 Parsippany: 973-334-2255