Patients often ask if they can get cavities on their front teeth. Tooth decay or cavities can occur in any part of the mouth, on any tooth surface. They can spread through the enamel (the hard outer surface of the tooth), the dentin (the middle part of the tooth) and up to the pulp (the nerve of the tooth). Usually, most people clean their front teeth more thoroughly because they can see build-up or food on them, but cavities can also appear in these areas for a variety of reasons.
Why Might I Get A Cavity In My Front Teeth?
Cavities on the front teeth occur for the same reasons as anywhere else in the mouth, namely a combination of diet, oral hygiene and genetic or environmental risk factors. High-sugar diets and high-carbohydrate diets can lead to more acid production in the oral bacteria, which leads to the weaker tooth structure and more tooth decay. Patients who do not brush twice a day or floss once a day is at increased risk of tooth decay. A dry mouth is another reason why patients may notice cavities appearing in their mouths practically out of nowhere. Especially in the case of anterior teeth, cavities along the gum line or around orthodontic brackets or attachments are areas that are particularly vulnerable to decay.
How Can I Prevent Tooth Decay On My Front Teeth?
Regular flossing and fluoride toothpaste will help prevent cavities anywhere in the mouth. Drinking water after snacking or drinking a sweetened drink can wash away some of the acids and prevent enamel decay. Fluoride mouth rinse tablets, available over-the-counter or without a prescription, can also help patients at high risk of caries or undergoing orthodontic treatment. As always, your dentist is the best person to ask about specific risk factors for tooth decay, and regular cleanings and check ups are the best way to avoid tooth decay!
Root Canals: No More Pain!
Root canals have historically gotten a bad rap, but they can be the lifesaver that saves your severe tooth pain and the tooth itself! When many people think of root canal treatment, they fear that the dentist or endodontist will cause severe pain. However, this is not the case! In fact, root canals help prevent tooth pain and are not a painful procedure.
Why Do I Need A Root Canal?
Root canals are necessary to remove bacteria and infected tissue from the infected tooth root. Root canal treatment prevents re-infection and can help preserve the natural tooth. If you have any of the following symptoms, a root canal may be the solution:
- severe pain when chewing or biting
- General trauma to the tooth, such as a chipped or broken tooth.
- Persistent sensitivity to hot or cold even after the sensation has been eliminated.
- pain or constant throbbing pain in the mouth
- Swollen or sensitive gums
- Deep decay or darkening of the gums
What Happens During Root Canal Surgery?Â
Nowadays, root canals are very similar to regular dental fillings and are painless. Often the toothache is worse than the procedure itself. There is no pain during the procedure with the appropriate anesthetic! After the treatment, you will be pain-free and on the road to recovery.
Your dentist or endodontist will start by sedating the area. The inflamed or infected tooth nerve is then removed. The area is then filled and sealed to prevent re-infection. The treated tooth will then most likely need a crown to restore its full shape and function.
Run, Don’t Walk!
Don’t let fear of the dentist or root canals stop you from dealing with the pain. The longer you wait, the more pain you will experience, and sometimes this can result in tooth loss if the tooth is not treated. This also creates a higher and increased risk of infection. At Ideal Smile Dentistry, our dentists and endodontists are well-trained and eager to help you get rid of the pain. If you have a toothache, schedule an appointment today.
Still, worried? Ask your dentist or endodontist what you can do to relieve your dental anxiety.
