Lesson 4: What is a Cavity?

A cavity (also called a dental carie) is a hole that develops in your tooth when your tooth starts to decay. The hole can increase in size over time and can become very sensitive and give you headaches!

WHY DO CAVITIES OCCUR?

Cavities are the reason we brush and floss every day! A lot of germs build up in our mouths throughout the day (especially when we eat sugary foods!). These germs form plaque which cling to our teeth and destroy our enamel. As the plaque eats away at the enamel, a cavity forms.

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU GET A CAVITY?

It is important to brush twice a day, and floss, in order to prevent cavities. If you do get a cavity, you need to go to the dentist! If you don’t go to the dentist the plaque in your mouth can build up and break down your tooth all the way to the nerve! Ouch!

Your dentist will examine your teeth and if they find a cavity they can repair it by filling the hole up with a filling! Then you can go right back to eating and enjoying your teeth! Just remember to keep brushing!