Cavities are small holes that slowly develop in the teeth because
of tooth decay.
Tooth decay usually happens slowly over a period of months or
years. Acids made by plaque eat away at the hard (mineral) part of the tooth.
Sometimes the tooth can use minerals in saliva to rebuild itself. A cavity
forms when the damage caused by acids is more than the tooth can repair.
Mild tooth decay may be helped by effective tooth-brushing and
flossing, as well as daily rinsing with fluoride mouth care products. More
serious tooth decay that has caused cavities may require fillings to stop the
decay and prevent further damage to the teeth.
Infants who are put to bed with a bottle or who are allowed to suck
on a bottle with any sugar-containing substance (such as juice) for a long time
may develop cavities, especially in the upper front teeth. This condition is
called 'baby bottle tooth decay.' Children with cavities in several teeth
(usually the upper front teeth) may have trouble chewing hard foods and
learning to speak, due to pain and tooth damage. Cavities in infants can often
be prevented by making sure the baby's mouth and teeth are cleaned after the
last feeding at night.
