What Are The 3 types Of Cavities? | How To Cure Tooth Decay

Chris Antrim • May 26, 2021

Determining The The Three Types Of Cavities So the Dentist Can Easily Treat Them

Cavities and tooth decay are the most common health problems. Children, teenagers, and older adults are prone to cavities. In addition, anyone who has teeth can experience cavities, including infants. But cavities aren’t just annoying, it may cause serious problems when left untreated.


If the cavities aren’t treated, they will have a great impact on your mouth. That may lead to severe toothache, infection, and worst tooth loss. There are three types of cavities, you need to understand, so they can be treated effectively.


Here are the three types of cavities, what causes them, and what are the possible treatments you can get to help you relieve faster. The types of cavities vary depending on the location of the hole in the tooth.

3 Types Of Cavities


  • Pit & Fissure Cavities are usually found on the chewing surface of the teeth or most commonly on the back teeth. These cavities are formed because of the food particle or plaque that gets stuck in the grooves and crevices on the top of the teeth. In addition, poor dental hygiene often leads to pit and fissure cavities.


If caught early, these cavities are easily treated. Fluoride toothpaste can get rid of an early sign of pit and fissure cavity. Small and medium cavity requires fillings and composite. But a larger pit most likely needed a crown. Your local dentist can provide both procedures.


  • Smooth Surface Cavities are commonly found on the teeth that position at the side of the mouth. This tooth decay is the least common and the slowest-growing cavities.


Just like pit and fissure cavities, you can get smooth surface cavities once a person doesn’t brush their teeth correctly or regularly. Aside from being the slowest-growing cavity, this type of cavity is the easiest to treat. Fluoride rich-toothpaste and regular dental flossing will be enough to restore your oral health.


  • Root Cavities from the word itself are located at the root of the teeth. These cavities are most often experienced among adults. It is most likely to have gum receding and other gum disorders. When gum wears off, the roots are left exposed, this will become vulnerable to tooth decay because they aren’t covered with some hard, protective enamel the teeth provide.


The first step in treating root cavities is removing the decay, then replacing it with a filling or crown. In some cases, when the decay is severe and the cavity is spread through the tooth’s pulp, a root canal is recommended. 


Tooth Extraction For Cavities

Your dentist will do everything in order to save your teeth from cavities. But any type of cavities that are ignored for a long period will have the same fate as others. This means that your tooth will be pulled. Tooth extraction or tooth removal will be the dentist’s last option in order to save your mouth from infections.


But you can prevent your tooth from any type of cavities by simply brushing your teeth regularly. Use fluoride-rich toothpaste to strengthen your enamel. Flossing can help reduce the cavity and it also helps in removing food particles that are stuck between your teeth. This is often advised by all dentists, avoid sugary food. And last is, stay hydrated.


These are the simple ways you can do to avoid cavities in your teeth. Aside from this, making a regular appointment with your local dentist can help you fight an early sign of tooth decay.

We Hope You Learn Something.

If You Need Faster Solution For Your Oral Problem, Book An Appointment With Us.

You might also like

emergency pediatric boise
By Emergency Dental Clinics Of Boise 11 Dec, 2023
Unexpected dental woes? Reach out to the best 24-hour emergency dentist in Boise for prompt, friendly, and efficient dental care at any time. Contact us today!
24hours emergency dentist boise
By Emergency Dental Clinics Of Boise 10 Dec, 2023
Unexpected dental woes? Reach out to the best 24-hour emergency dentist in Boise for prompt, friendly, and efficient dental care at any time. Schedule your appointment at 208-266-7721.
emergency dental boise
By Emergency Dental Clinics Of Boise 09 Dec, 2023
Understanding when a situation calls for emergency wisdom tooth removal can save you from severe pain. Discover the signs and steps to take here with Emergency Dental Boise.
More Posts

Book a Service Today

Share by: