Five Things to Know About Cavities

Cavities are one of the most common dental issues in the world, yet many people still have questions about what they are, how they form, and how to prevent them. Whether you’ve had a cavity before or you’re trying to avoid one, understanding the basics can go a long way in keeping your teeth healthy. At our Pineville family practice, Dr. Douglas Geiger and the team believe that education is just as important as prevention. Here are five essential things to know about cavities — and how you and your loved ones can protect your smiles.

1. What Exactly Is a Cavity?

A cavity, also known as tooth decay or dental caries, is a hole that forms in your tooth when dental plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) breaks down tooth enamel. When you eat or drink foods that contain sugar or starch, the bacteria in plaque produce acid. Over time, this acid erodes your enamel creating tiny openings — cavities — that can grow larger if left untreated. Cavities don’t always cause pain right away, which is why regular dental check-ups are so important. Early signs may include white spots, tooth sensitivity, or visible holes, or tooth discoloration.

2. Anyone Can Get Cavities

Cavities can affect patients of all ages — from infant to older adult. While children are especially prone to cavities due to sugary snacks and developing brushing habits (in fact, tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in children), adults and older adults can develop decay too, especially around the gums or old fillings.

You may be more likely to get cavities if you:

• Don’t brush or use dental floss regularly
• Consume lots of sugary or acidic food and drinks
• Have dry mouth (xerostomia); less saliva means less protection for your teeth
• Skip regular teeth cleaning and dental exams

Good habits and professional care are your best line of defense, no matter your age.

3. Cavities Can Be Prevented

Here’s the good news: cavities are largely preventable. With a consistent oral hygiene routine and some smart lifestyle choices, you can keep your tooth enamel strong and cavity-free. Dr. Douglas Geiger, DMD offers preventative dentistry options for the entire family.

Cavity Prevention Tips:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Use a fluoride mouthwash once a day
• Use dental floss daily to clean between teeth
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks; eat a healthy and balanced diet
• Drink plenty of water, especially if your area participates in water fluoridation
• See your dentist regularly for teeth cleaning and check-ups

Dental sealants and fluoride varnish, which are often recommended for children, can also help protect teeth from decay.

4. Cavities Can Lead to Bigger Problems

When a cavity is left untreated, it doesn’t go away on its own —it continues to grow and may eventually reach the inner parts of the tooth, including the dentin and the pulp. This can lead to an increased risk of:

• Toothache
• Infection or abscess
• Tooth loss
• The need for a crown, root canal, or extraction

That’s why early treatment is key. Catching a cavity in its early stages usually means a simple filling. Waiting too long can turn a small issue into a more complex (and costly) one.

5. Treatment Is Quick and Comfortable

If you’re nervous about cavity treatment, you’re not alone. Many people avoid the dentist because they fear discomfort —but today’s dentistry is more gentle and patient-focused than ever.

Treating a cavity typically involves:

• Numbing the area with local anesthesic
• Removing the decay from the tooth
• Filling the space with a tooth-colored resin to restore shape and strength

In most cases, the process is fast and virtually pain-free. Dr. Douglas Geiger and our caring team are here to make your visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Ready to Keep Cavities Away? Schedule an Appointment With Us Today!

Whether you’re due for a teeth cleaning, need a filling, or just have questions about your smile, Dr. Douglas Geiger and our team are here to help every step of the way. Schedule your appointment at our Pineville, North Carolina office today and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile. Call our office at (704-228-1864) or book online — we look forward to seeing you soon!