• Cavities are caused by a bacterial infection known as caries

• An acidic oral environment drives the infection

• Brushing and flossing alone can not stop the infection

• The good news is that the infection is treatable and preventable.

 

Facts About Cavities

Cavities are the demineralized areas, or the holes, that form in teeth as a result of a bacterial infection on your teeth called dental caries.  This infection takes place when the normal healthy bacteria in the mouth are replaced by acid-producing bacteria. 

Drilling and filling has been the traditional method of treating cavities, but it doesn't treat the bacterial infection just the symptoms. Brushing and flossing has been the traditional method of prevention, but it does not change the pH (acidity) of the oral environment or treat the infection once it exists.

 

Expert Advice

• Call our office to have a "caries risk assessment", where we evaluate what factors are contributing to you getting cavities, and offer treatment beyond drilling and filling, including CariFree products that can help significantly reduce your risk of developing caries.