2272 Barataria Blvd. Marrero, LA 70072

Teeth Cavities Marrero, LA

Barataria Dental is a family dentist office in New Orleans. We offer complete care for children as well as adults with various dental concerns. Our main concern is preventing tooth decay. Our dentists recommend that you visit the dentist at least every six months for routine examination and professional teeth cleaning.

Plaque is a sticky substance that is constantly forming in the mouth. It builds up along teeth, between teeth, and around the gums. Bacteria in plaque become activated by sugar and starch in the food we eat. The bacteria produce acid which erodes tooth enamel and can lead to the formation of a tooth cavity.

Daily brushing and flossing are essential to reducing plaque and bacteria in the mouth and therefore preventing cavities. It is also important to limit snacking between meals, avoid sodas and candy, and drink plenty of water.

tooth decay screening marrero la

Tooth Decay Signs

The dentist is able to identify early signs of tooth decay before most patients experience any physical symptoms, so it is important to maintain regular dental check-ups. There are some signs that could indicate tooth decay including:

  • White spots on teeth
  • Dark or dull teeth
  • Toothache
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Visible holes in teeth

Tooth Cavity Treatment

Our dentists can prevent tooth cavities with professional cleaning and sealants, which are plastic coverings that protect teeth. If you already have signs of tooth decay, the dentist may recommend the following treatment:

  • Composite Dental Fillings: Composite dental fillings are placed in a single visit, and used to treat minor tooth cavities.
  • Porcelain or Gold Fillings: If the tooth decay is more extensive, Dr. Burmaster and Dr. Hemphill may use an indirect restoration such as gold or ceramic filling to protect the tooth.
  • Root Canal: When tooth decay progresses to the root of the tooth, it can cause extreme pain. A root canal procedure will eliminate the infection from inside the tooth and restore the tooth using a dental crown to prevent future problems.

Tooth Cavity FAQs

Can I get rid of a cavity by brushing my teeth?

Good oral healthcare and brushing your teeth are great ways for you to help prevent cavities from occurring. But brushing only works for cavity prevention. Once the cavity is already there, brushing can’t make it go away. You have to get treatment at a dentist office to truly take care of a cavity.

Are tooth cavities permanent?

Yes, tooth cavities are areas of your teeth that are permanently damaged. Once tooth decay evolves enough, it eats a whole into at least the top layer of your tooth, the enamel. Enamel doesn’t regenerate, so once those holes are there, they stay there.

What happens if you ignore a cavity?

The longer you ignore a cavity, the more severe things get. As this cavity in your tooth gets bigger, it’s able to collect more and more bacteria. They cause an infection in the soft tissues inside of your tooth. A tooth infection causes pain and inflammation throughout the jaw and can have consequences throughout your entire body. If you suspect you have a cavity, call our office immediately.

Do cavities get worse with age?

Many people think of cavities as something children get. And children do get many cavities, due to their sugary diets, but older people are more likely to get cavities, too. Our teeth wear out as we age and our gums start to recede. This makes our teeth more susceptible to tooth decay and other dental problems.

How many cavities are normal in a lifetime?

It’s likely that you’ll have at least one cavity in your lifetime. On average, people get 3-4 cavities throughout their lifetime. Things like genetics, diet, and the diligence of your oral healthcare routine can all impact the number of cavities you experience.

How can I stop my cavity from growing?

Before you’re seen in the dentist office for a filling, there are things you can do to stop your cavity from worsening. Carefully brushing the area helps deter bacteria and debris from continuing to build up in the cavity. Make sure that you’re staying hydrated, as this helps with cavity progression and also rinses bacteria away from the area. Saltwater rinses may be able to help as well.

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Schedule A Consultation

Routine dental checkups for children and adults are the best defense against developing tooth decay. Be sure to schedule your biannual dental checkups for you and your whole family.

Our dentist office provides dental care to children and adult patients in the Marrero, LA area. We welcome new patients from all over the greater New Orleans, LA area to experience our comprehensive and compassionate dentistry. If you are experiencing a specific dental concern, or are looking for a new family dentist, contact our dentist office today at 504.358.8632 or request a consultation using our convenient online form.