What is a root cavity?

Root cavities attack the hidden part of the tooth, the root (although signs of them can be visible where the tooth meets the gum.) They are likely to occur when the gum has receded. This can happen as a result of gum disease or even just because a person brushes too hard.

What is the root cause of cavities?

What causes root decay? Typically, tooth decay causes all cavities, including root cavities, to develop. The process occurs over time, and it starts with a sticky film called plaque that develops on your teeth when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and starches that are left behind from the foods that you eat.

What are the different dental caries?

Typically, dental caries can be spotted on two specific areas of the teeth: occlusal caries, which form on the top most part of the tooth where food particles repeatedly come in direct contact with the teeth and interproximal caries, which are dental caries that form between the teeth.

What is root surface caries?

Tooth decay on the root surface of teeth may also be called root cavities, root decay, or root caries. It is a potentially detrimental oral health problem that needs immediate treatment to prevent severe dental damage.

What bacteria causes root caries?

Based on numerous microbiological studies performed over the past several decades, it is clear that mutans streptococci can cause human root caries. S. mutans fulfills the criteria for implicating bacteria in the etiology of a mixed infection.

How is a root cavity filled?

Once the inside chamber of the tooth is empty, it is thoroughly sterilized to remove any leftover debris. It is then filled with a special material to seal the tooth and prevent the infection from coming back. In many cases, we will create a personalized crown over the tooth to protect it from further damage.

Are caries and cavities the same thing?

Cavities are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes. Cavities, also called tooth decay or caries, are caused by a combination of factors, including bacteria in your mouth, frequent snacking, sipping sugary drinks and not cleaning your teeth well.

How does root caries start and progress?

Like coronal caries, the main aetiologic factor for the initiation and development of root caries is the presence of a cariogenic biofilm and fermentable carbohydrates (mainly sugars) (Ravald 1986). When sugar penetrates a cariogenic biofilm, it is converted to acids by bacteria.

How do you get rid of root cavities?

There is no possible way to cure a cavity once it has reached the inner dentin layer of a tooth. The only sure method to remove a cavity and keep it from spreading is by visiting your dentist and having them remove the damaged area for you by performing a filling procedure.

Where are root caries found?

Root caries is any carious lesion which occurs on the root surface of the tooth and is more prevalent in older people. Lesions are discoloured, softened and ill defined but may or may not be cavitated.

How do you treat root cavities?

To treat root cavities, dentists start by removing any tooth decay and then fill the cavity with a filling. If decay has spread to the pulp, root canal therapy is usually needed. Since this portion of the tooth does not have as much protective enamel, tooth decay can spread relatively quickly.

What is the difference between a root canal and a filling?

A root canal clears away bacteria and damaged tissue to relieve pain and save the tooth. A filling restores the function and cosmetic appearance of the tooth; a root canal cleans and protects the soft tissue inside the tooth from further damage.