Cavity Detection

Cavities, also known as dental caries, are the result of bacterial tooth decay that affects the hard tissues of the teeth. The earlier a cavity is detected, the less damage it can cause. At Gainesville Dental Arts there are several methods that may use to detect cavities.

Detection Methods

• First is visual inspection of the teeth looking for discoloration, enamel destruction, or holes in the teeth.
• Secondly, Gainesville Dental Arts may use a probe or dental explorer to check the crevices of your teeth for decay.
• Dental x-rays are very important in detecting dental decay particularly between the teeth.
• Intra Oral camera is an excellent and newer device to detect cavities especially in the initial stage.
• Newer optical methods of evaluating teeth for decay are being tested and may be found to be a practical method for detection in the future.

You can help prevent cavities by regularly visiting the Gainesville Dental Arts, brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and cleaning daily between your teeth with dental floss.