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Gum Line Cavity: All You Should Know About
Gum Line Cavity is a routine dental problem that can cause sensitivity and pain if not treated on time. It usually forms near the gum area and can get worse quickly without proper care. If you notice discomfort or signs of decay, don’t wait—early treatment can save your tooth. Call us today at (512) 863-7561 to get expert help.
Understanding Gum Line Cavities: Types, Risks, and Key Facts
One of the major signs of tooth decay is a dental cavity, also known as dental caries. These are small holes that develop in the teeth when decay progresses. If left untreated, they may become larger, leading to more severe dental issues. A cavity can develop at any part of the tooth. The three main types of cavities are:
- ● Smooth surface.
- ● Biting surface
- ● Root cavities.
People who are more prone to developing gum line cavity are usually older adults. They usually develop cavities along their gum line. This type of cavity is considered a smooth-surface cavity unless it extends below the gum line. Discover more about gum line cavity.
What are the main causes of a gum line cavity?
One of the major causes of gum line cavity is dental plaque. Plaque is a sticky layer that forms on your teeth. This usually occurs when the oral bacteria thrive on the sugar of the foods and drinks that you have consumed recently.
The sugar in the foods is converted into acid by the bacteria, which damages the hard layer of enamel on your teeth. The plaque can harden and turn into a yellowish layer along your teeth and gum line.
This happens partly because gums tend to recede with age, exposing your roots. Since the roots of your teeth are covered with cementum, which is softer than the hard enamel that protects the rest of your teeth, they are more vulnerable to plaque and decay.
Symptoms of Gum line cavity
Initially, you might not even feel that you have developed a cavity, as cavities usually start small. However, the following are some signs that you should watch for:
- ● Toothache is one of the most common symptoms that occurs when a cavity develops.
- ● Temperature sensitivity. Your teeth may become more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.
- ● Another sign is sensitivity to sweets. In case of a damaged enamel or cementum, your tooth will ache after having something sweet.
- ● Stains on tooth surfaces, which are initially white spots, may darken in color over time.
- ● Pits or holes in teeth. It is important to immediately consult with dentist in georgetown tx if you notice any small holes in your teeth.
Complications of Gum Line Cavity
A gum line cavity is usually more complicated than the cavity that develops on the surface of the teeth. Since a cavity that develops on the surface can easily be filled.
However, an extensive treatment will be needed if the cavity that extends beyond the gumline reaches the roots of the tooth.
Dentist in Georgetown tx may need to perform a root canal in cases where the decay reaches the pulp or the centre of the tooth. The procedure involves cleaning the dental pulp along with the pathways, then disinfecting the whole area, and finally sealing it up.
To cover up the damaged tooth, some people may also need a crown afterwards. However, this usually depends on the location of the affected tooth. A crown is usually required for the teeth that are in the back of the mouth or used for chewing purposes.
How to treat Gum line Cavity
A gum line cavity treatment usually depends on the location of the cavity. A cavity that is not below the gum line or is not very extensive can be treated with a filling like any other cavity. This means your dentist in georgetown tx will first make a hole in the enamel on the tooth to remove the decay. The hole is then filled with substances like composite resin, and then finally curing it to set it.. However, a cavity that has gone beyond the gum line usually requires a more extensive treatment. In such cases, your dentist may need to perform a root canal that will not only clear the decay but also prevent it from spreading.
Conclusion
It is recommended to consult with a dentist in georgetown as soon as possible if you are at risk of developing a gumline cavity. However, in the meantime, you should be working on keeping your gums and teeth clean, either by following a routine of brushing and flossing.
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