How long cavities develop

You can do your part in helping to protect your teeth from tooth decay by following a few simple guidelines:. Having regular teeth cleanings and exams every six months is another necessary step in eliminating cavity-causing plaque and tartar. During these exams, your dentist will be able to identify any early signs of tooth decay and give you the tools and knowledge to combat cavities. Contact Tompkins Dental to schedule an appointment for a routine dental cleaning and exam.

Learn about what to expect during your child's first routine dental exam in Ithaca and what you can do to help make it a positive experience for your baby. Ensure your veneers continue to look as great as the day they were put on in Ithaca by implementing these 4 tips to keep them looking brand new.

Have black triangles started to appear when you smile at yourself in the mirror? How long does it take for a cavity to get to the nerve? The distance from the surface of a tooth to the nerve inside ranges from less than a millimeter to about one-quarter of an inch depending on the type of tooth. As bacterial acid in the mouth dissolves the enamel surface of the tooth it causes a growing opening which is called a cavity. How fast this opening enlarges and travels a few millimeters depends on the amount of acid present, how intact the tooth has become as it has grown to adult size, how many surface defects there are, and how many scars, abrasions or fractures are in the surface enamel or dentin.

A person who can't brush or floss, who accumulates acid-producing bacteria around the teeth, who does not use fluoride or oral calcium products, and who has stomach acid in the mouth from GERD or bulimia can grow cavities that invade the dental nerve in as little as three or six months. Over time, the damage caused by the demineralization process is corrected and the conditions are no longer right for a cavity to form.

If the enamel or dentin is too damaged, the remineralization process will not be able to work, and the cavity will need to be filled. There are some things you can do to prevent or slow down the formation of cavities. Some things you can do include:. Is it time for a dental checkup or a professional cleaning? Call Artistic Touch Dentistry today to schedule an appointment for a routine dental cleaning and professional exam.

By Dr. Schedule an Appointment. How Do Cavities Form? Cavity Prevention Tips Regular visits to our office are not the only thing you need to do to care for your teeth! Schedule Your Appointment Today! Contact Us.