Cavities

What is a cavity?

A cavity is a small hole in your tooth that grows over time when left untreated. It’s most often caused by tooth decay due to a buildup of plaque and bacteria. Plaque is a sticky film that clings to your teeth, creating acids that eat away at your enamel. This leaves your teeth unprotected against harmful bacteria.

Cavities are often viewed as a common dental concern in children, though adults with poor oral hygiene habits or a diet high in sugar are also at risk of developing cavities.

How do I know if my child has a cavity?

Many children experience no cavity symptoms at all, but the most common warning signs include:

• Tooth pain (may mimic an earache)
• Tooth sensitivity
• Pain while chewing
• Visible holes in your teeth
• White, black, or brown tooth stains
• Sharp pain when drinking something hot or cold

You may have no idea a cavity is forming until it has already damaged your child's healthy teeth, which is why it’s important to schedule routine dental cleanings with Dr. O’Mallon at least once every six months.

What are my cavity treatment options?

If you think your child has  a cavity, Dr. O’Mallon will inspect your child's smile for any signs of tooth decay. During this exam, he will most likely take X-rays to determine if the damage has spread beyond one tooth.

Next, Dr. O’Mallon will speak to you about your child's  dental treatment and clearly explain which teeth need  dental restorations and how he plans to treat your child.. There are many different types of restorations to choose from at Dr. O’Mallon’s office, including:

Microabrasian Dentistry

A minimally invasive technique used to gently remove decay. It uses a fine stream of air and fine particles of medical grade aluminum oxide. No "drilling" needed. Literally "blows" away the decay and in most cases no anesthesia needed!

Tooth colored fillings

Ceramic colored composite fillings look and feel exactly like the rest of your teeth. They are made from materials which bond to the tooth and create seamless results. They are  considered to be the most aesthetically pleasing type of filling.

Glass Ionomer

Made from acrylic and glass powders, glass ionomer fillings are translucent and inexpensive, making them an ideal option for patients looking for a seamless filling that blends in well with their smile. They also release small amounts of fluoride over time to prevent future tooth decay.

Laser Dentistry

A dental laser is designed to specifically for oral surgery or dentistry. This allows the removal of soft tissue procedures with little or no bleeding, therefore avoiding the need for sutures. Mostly used for gum removable or contouring.

Treat your cavities before it’s too late with the help of Dr. O’Mallon and his compassionate, educated team. Call Dr. Lawrence O’Mallon today to learn more about your cavity treatment options.