Cavity Checks from a Family Dentist

One of the main reasons people typically visit a family dentist is to get a cavity check. The American Dental Association states that 91% of adults in America over the age of 20 have had at least one cavity. Generally included in each six-month wellness examination, a cavity check can help both identify areas where cavities may be forming and monitor existing cavities that may be too small for a filing. Here are some things to expect during this type of appointment.

Common cavity detection methods

Unfortunately, many people wait until they have tooth pain before going to the dentist. Under these circumstances, any existing cavities are usually obvious without using any probing instruments. While certain cavities are large enough to be seen with the naked eye, others can only be identified upon closer examination using more sophisticated tools.

Probing tools

Dental professionals frequently use probing tools to poke at tooth enamel and determine whether it is hard or soft. A sickle probe is a tool used by dentists to check for cavities until more modern methods were developed. This probe made it easier for a dental professional to locate soft spots on the enamel that had been weakened by decay and worn down by erosion. A briault probe is curved, has sharp points on both ends, and is useful for locating soft spots in between the teeth. A dental hygienist may still use these probes during a cleaning to determine if further examination is needed in a specific area of the mouth.

X-rays

A cavity can be easily identified in an X-ray by a family dentist. It will show up as a dark spot in a white tooth. X-rays can pinpoint the location and depth of cavities, including those in between the teeth. Because of this, most dentists recommend having imagery taken regularly. In certain cases, especially in areas between the teeth, cavities may start to form that are not visible to the naked eye. Getting an X-ray can identify these areas so a dentist can keep a close watch on them. Although less common, cavities can also form underneath previous fillings. When this happens, the only way to see the new decay is with an X-ray.

Lasers

There are patients with tooth decay that starts out underneath the enamel instead of on the surface of the tooth. In these cases, neither probing tools or X-rays are effective at identifying the damage. Subsurface cavities can only be located with the help of lasers. During this cavity detection method, the laser that is directed at the teeth will pass through healthy enamel but reflect back off of any decay.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Family Dentist in New York, NY

Conclusion

Far from being an unnecessary nuisance, getting frequent cavity checks from a family dentist can help prevent further decay and damage to teeth. Identifying areas to watch or fix can allow the teeth to stay healthy and last as long as possible. A dentist may use one or all three of these methods to look for cavities to make sure undetected decay does not exist.

Request an appointment or call New York Dental Office at 212-548-3261 for an appointment in our New York office.

Recent Posts

3 Common Reasons To See A Family Dentist

A unique benefit of choosing a family dentist is that this professional care for the oral health of your entire household during every stage of life. The dental needs of children, teenagers, and adults vary, so a family dentist who can offer a comprehensive range of services for every family member is a valuable asset.Family…

Dental Care Tips: Take Your Family To A Family Dentist

When you are a parent, you are responsible for your children's medical care. Healthy teeth are an important component under that umbrella of care. Finding a family dentist is an easy step that simplifies the process of caring for the oral health of the entire family. This type of dentist is a dentist who is…

General Vs. Family Dentist: What's The Difference

There are many reasons to consider choosing either a family dentist or a general dentist. A move to a new location, changing dental needs, or even the retirement of a current dentist can lead a patient to weigh the available options in dental care. Knowing the difference in the services and restrictions of each type…

Corey Brick, DDS

Share
Published by
Corey Brick, DDS

Recent Posts

How to Clean and Maintain Your Dentures for Optimal Oral Health

Dentures are the way to go if you are looking for an affordable way to…

4 days ago

Choosing an Adult Orthodontics Option

Having an attractive smile will give you a boost of confidence, and adult orthodontics may…

5 days ago

3 Signs You Need Your Dentures Relined

The need for relining your dentures may not occur to you because of your busy…

6 days ago

Types of Dentures: Which Is the Best Option for You?

Dentures can replace teeth right away. It is a common solution to tooth loss. Because…

2 weeks ago

What to Expect After Getting Full Dentures

Full dentures can replace the teeth of each dental arch. Your gums and saliva will…

2 weeks ago

What to Expect When Getting Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are one of the missing teeth replacement options you get to choose from…

3 weeks ago