A brief overview of types of cavity

Dental cavities or tooth decay are the most common cause of tooth damage. This can be due to various reasons, such as increased sugar-laden food items in the diet and irregular tooth cleaning. But do you know there are different types of cavities? Cavities can be classified into various types based on location and extent of damage. In the information provided below, we will briefly discuss the types of cavity – brought to you by Bangalore Dental Specialists HSR Layout.

Types of cavity based on location

Smooth surface decay

Smooth-surface caries are tooth decay that occurs on the sides of the tooth. No deep fissures or pits are involved. They occur due to plaque accumulation on the tooth surface. When brushing is irregular or incorrect, a slimy layer is deposited on the tooth surface. 

Pit and fissure decay

This usually happens on the biting surface of the teeth. This surface has deep pits and fissures present. There is a high chance of food lodgement in these areas. 

Root caries

When there is a gum recession, the root portion of the teeth is exposed. This overexposure makes the teeth more vulnerable to root caries. 

Types of cavity based on the extent of damage

Initial caries

This is the initial demineralization stage, during which you will notice only white spots or a chalky appearance on the teeth.  

Enamel caries

It involves the first layer of the tooth, where we can feel the pitting. It is always better to stop the disease progression in this stage. If not treated on time, it can lead to further complications. 

Dental caries

Dentine is the second layer which gets involved after enamel. Here, the disease is getting closer to the nerves and vessels of the tooth.

Pulpal involvement

When the tooth cavity involves the nerves and vessels of the teeth, it is said to have involved the pulp. The pulp is the innermost layer of the tooth. When the cavity reaches this stage, it causes immense pain. Beyond this, pus forms around the root of the tooth. Not treating the cavity at this stage can lead to serious complications, such as tooth loss and pus formation. 

Treatment options based on types of cavity 

The treatment plan for any tooth cavity depends on the extent of damage. Let us discuss the common treatment options at Bangalore Dental Specialists HSR Layout. Our team will clinically and radiologically assess your case before customizing the treatment plan. 

Dental fillings

Tooth-colored fillings are the most common treatment option for tooth decay. This is done when the enamel and dentin are involved in the damage. Once the pulp gets involved, we need extensive treatment.

RCT

Root canal treatment is the regular treatment for pulpal involvement. Here, the tooth is cleaned of the infected nerves and vessels. A dental crown follows RCT. 

Extraction

If not treated at the pulpal damage stage, there is a formation of pus around the tooth. Tooth mobility is the consequence of involving the supporting tissues of the teeth. Extraction is the last resort for such teeth. 

The bottom line

If you have tooth cavities and are confused about the stage of your tooth damage, do not wait for the pain to appear. Always act fast and get a consultation. Book your appointment now with us at Bangalore Dental Specialists HSR Layout.