Cavities & Their Detection

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You try hard to keep up with your dental hygiene so that your smile can shine at its best. Despite your best efforts, a cavity can form in your mouth. You may be wondering, “How did this cavity form?” Dr. Dean Calpas and our team are eager to teach you about cavities and how to detect them.

Cavities 101
The bacteria in your mouth feeds on sugars and starches and converts them to acids that can then dissolve the tooth enamel. The enamel is the strong, protective layer of the teeth. Think of it as a shield to the inner parts of the tooth. Damage to the enamel means that decay can form in the tooth. This tooth decay, which is also known as a cavity, may need to be treated with a dental filling.

Cavity Detection
Visiting your dentist is the surest way to detect a cavity. Visual exams can be performed to determine the health of the teeth. At Monticello Dental Center, we also use up-to-date technology so that we can find tooth decay early. When you visit our office, our dentist in Big Lake, Minnesota, may recommend the use of digital imaging, which is also called digital X-rays. This diagnostic tool allows us to see areas of the mouth that are not visible with the naked eye, like between the teeth.

For more information and to set up an appointment, we welcome you to call our office at 763-263-7100 today.