The American Association of Endodontists recently commissioned a survey that revealed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on oral health. The survey revealed that more than fifty percent of Americans postponed their regular dental checkups. Significant numbers also reported eating sugary snacks more frequently. Added to these findings was the decline in tooth brushing and flossing. Not surprisingly, almost one-third of dentists interviewed reported an increase in dental cavities when people did return for checkups. This survey reveals that now is a suitable time to review the facts about dental cavities.
To find out more about cavities, treatment options and if you have any schedule an appointment with Trident General Dentistry.
What Causes Cavities in Front Teeth?
A cavity in a front tooth or back tooth results when dental plaque is allowed to remain too long on a tooth surface. This plaque contains acids that can damage the minerals in tooth enamel to cause a hole known as a cavity. Without prompt treatment, a small cavity can destroy enough of the tooth to render it incapable of restoring. Whether located on a front or back tooth, tooth decay remains the most common reason for tooth loss worldwide.
Why Do My Front Teeth Hurt?
A cavity is only one reason your front tooth may hurt. The causes of pain in a tooth include:
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Grinding your teeth.
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Improperly using home teeth whitening products.
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Gum recession.
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Consuming excessive amounts of sweets or acidic food and beverages.
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Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause.
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Inflamed tooth nerve.
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Abscessed tooth.
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Sinusitis.
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Worn tooth enamel.
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Gum infection.
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Cracked tooth.
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Defective dental filling.
How Are Cavities in Front Teeth Treated?
The treatment of a front tooth cavity depends on the amount of tooth decay. Early detection and treatment minimize the amount of time, removal of natural tooth structure, and cost of repairing the cavity. Delaying professional treatment of a cavity leads to more extensive dental treatment. This often results in additional procedures such as root canal treatment, gum surgery, tooth extraction, dental implant, or bridge.
The prominence of front teeth when smiling and talking limits the options for treating cavities in front teeth. Dental materials used for these restorations require a natural-appearing color. This eliminates materials such as stainless steel, amalgam, gold, and other metals. The most common treatments of cavities in front teeth include:
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Dental bonding.
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Composite resin fillings.
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Dental crowns.
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Dental fillings.
How Strong are Crowns on Front Teeth?
You may need a crown on a front tooth if your tooth has severe decay, is broken during trauma, or is severely discolored. Crowns on front teeth typically are made of porcelain to match your natural teeth and make your smile attractive. Although not as strong as metal, the improvements in dental porcelain make it a strong and durable dental material for crowns on front and back teeth. However, it is important to keep in mind that excessive force applied to any dental material can cause significant damage.
Schedule an Appointment
We know how important preventing cavities in your front teeth is for a beautiful smile. Call Trident General Dentistry to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive oral examination and professional teeth cleaning and polishing.