I dread going to the dentist as much as the next person — which is why any video suggesting that I might not have to catches ...

A cavity, also called tooth decay, is a hole that forms in your tooth. Cavities start small and gradually become bigger when they’re left untreated.

Cavities are holes that develop on teeth as a result of decay. They can cause symptoms including toothache. Without treatment, cavities can worsen over time and cause other problems.

Over time, this breaks down the surface of the tooth until a hole or cavity is formed. Such erosion and penetration "starts in the enamel, which is the hard, outer layer of your teeth," adds Kennedy.

Learn more about cavities and taking care of your teeth. Skip to main content . Home ; Conditions . ... Holes or pits in your teeth. Black, white, or brown tooth stains. Pain when you bite down.

Over time, this breaks down the surface of the tooth until a hole or cavity is formed. Such erosion and penetration "starts in the enamel, which is the hard, outer layer of your teeth," adds Kennedy.

A 2023 randomized controlled trial in the Journal of Dentistry found that the bulk-fill base technique reduced procedure time ...

Learn how to spot, prevent and treat cavities, which are damaged tooth areas caused by decay. Get tips from medical organizations on symptoms, causes and best practices for oral care.

To treat the cavity, Shahhal digs into the tooth, getting rid of any tissue that's been infected using a round-tipped drill. Cavities are caused by bacteria on your ... that can become too much for ...

How to Prevent Cavities in Children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 20% of children between the ages of 5 and 11 have at least one untreated decayed tooth.

Over time, this breaks down the surface of the tooth until a hole or cavity is formed. Such erosion and penetration "starts in the enamel, which is the hard, outer layer of your teeth," adds Kennedy.

Experts give insight on how to remineralize teeth and share when it's too late to avoid a filling. Can you reverse a cavity in your tooth? Here's what dentists say.