If you ask anyone where a cavity grows, they’d probably tell you about your back molars or the teeth hidden from plain view. After all, most cavities form on the teeth, which are located right in the back of your mouth. This is a direct result of the bacteria gathered from years of chomping down on delicious junk food. But a cavity on the front tooth isn’t uncommon, either.
Your front teeth are supposed to be smoother, easy to clean, and sparkling white. Well, at least, that’s what most people believe. No matter how accessible and smooth they are, your front teeth are not immune to a cavity. That is why it is essential to maintain a spick and span oral hygiene routine.
What is a Cavity?
A cavity is better known as tooth decay. It occurs when the leftover bacteria in your mouth find their way inside a tooth. By eating away the enamel layer, bacteria travel to the depths of your tooth, harming the dentin and the pulp inside. In extreme cases, a decaying tooth can cause severe pain and fall right off if proper care and attention are not given.
What Causes a Cavity to Grow on the Front Tooth?
When dealing with cavity formation, there’s not that much of a difference. Despite the location, the reasons stay the same. However, according to studies, adults are far less likely to develop cavities on the front teeth. Usually, kids are the ones who suffer from this phenomenon. Moreover, if these dental issues aren’t dealt with properly during childhood, it could lead to severe health problems further down the line. Here are some common instances that can cause a cavity on your front tooth:
- Diet consisting of sugary foods and drinks
- Not brushing your teeth
- Forgetting to floss your teeth and gums
- Foods with high acidic content
- Acid reflux
- Fluoride deficiency
In addition, for kids, sharing saliva can lead to a cavity or damage their dental health for good. Plus, giving children sweetened drinks in a sippy cup or a bottle could cause baby bottle tooth decay (BBTD) which is just as dangerous, if not more.
How to Cover a Cavity on Front Tooth?
Unfortunately, home remedies don’t do much to get rid of the dark spot on the front of your teeth. However, you could find a way to cover up the glaring blemish by visiting your dentist. It’s better to seek treatment immediately before the cavity spreads.
Pay close attention to the exact shade of your teeth. Tooth decay starts with tiny white spots, leading to a light brown or gray color. Contact your dentist right then so the decay doesn’t get worse and turn into a black cavity smack dab on your front tooth.
Chances are your dentist will suggest getting a cosmetic dental prosthetic, such as a dental crown or a veneer, to help cover up the cavity on your front tooth.
How to Prevent Front Teeth Cavity
Cavities can be extremely bothersome. Here’s how you can prevent one from developing:
- Brush your teeth, daily
- Use a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss regularly
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet
- Visit a dentist two times a year
The Closing Word
Ultimately, it’s important to know that a cavity on the front tooth or near the gum could signify a serious dental concern. Give your dentist a visit as soon as possible, or call Spring Cypress Dental at (281) 256-3222 to schedule an appointment.