Tooth Decay & Cavity Treatment in Campus Drive Suite
Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic conditions in the world, affecting children and adults alike. At G Dental Group, Dr. Galang and Dr. Corvera diagnose cavities early, often before you feel any pain, and restore damaged teeth with conservative, natural-looking treatments. Whether you have a small spot of decay or a tooth that has been bothering you for weeks, our Daly City team will help you get back to a healthy, comfortable smile.
What Is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is the gradual breakdown of your tooth enamel caused by acids produced by bacteria in plaque. Every time you eat or drink sugary or starchy foods, these bacteria release acids that pull minerals out of the enamel. Over time, weakened areas turn into cavities, small holes that can grow deeper into the tooth if left untreated. Once decay reaches the inner layers of the tooth, it can cause sensitivity, pain, and infection.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Cavities
Early tooth decay often has no symptoms at all, which is why regular preventive dental exams are so important. As a cavity progresses, you may notice:
- Sensitivity to sweets, hot drinks, or cold foods
- A toothache or sharp pain when biting down
- Visible holes, pits, or dark spots on the tooth surface
- White, brown, or black staining on the enamel
- Food frequently getting stuck between certain teeth
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
What Causes Tooth Decay?
Several factors increase your risk for cavities, including frequent snacking, sugary drinks, inconsistent brushing and flossing, dry mouth, receding gums that expose root surfaces, and a lack of fluoride. Deep grooves on the chewing surfaces of molars can also trap bacteria, which is why we recommend dental sealants for many children and some adults. Patients with gum disease or teeth grinding may also experience more decay along weakened areas of the tooth.
How We Diagnose Cavities
During your exam, our dentists carefully evaluate each tooth, take digital x-rays when needed to find decay between teeth or under old fillings, and use laser technology that helps detect cavities at their earliest stages. Catching decay early means smaller, simpler, and more affordable treatment.
Treatment Options for Tooth Decay
The right treatment depends on how far the decay has progressed:
- Fluoride treatments can help remineralize very early areas of enamel weakness before a cavity forms.
- Tooth-colored fillings repair small to moderate cavities with composite resin that blends naturally with your smile.
- Dental crowns protect and strengthen teeth with large areas of decay that can’t support a filling.
- Root canal therapy saves teeth when decay has reached and infected the nerve.
- Tooth extraction may be necessary when a tooth can’t be saved, followed by replacement options such as dental implants or bridges.
Preventing Cavities at Home
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and drink plenty of water. Most importantly, visit G Dental Group every six months for professional cleanings and checkups so we can stop small problems before they become painful ones.
Tooth Decay FAQs
Can a cavity go away on its own?
No. Once a cavity forms a hole in the enamel, it cannot heal on its own. Very early enamel weakening can sometimes be reversed with fluoride, but true cavities need professional treatment to stop them from growing.
Does a cavity always hurt?
No. Many cavities cause no pain in the early stages. Pain or sensitivity usually develops once decay reaches deeper layers of the tooth, which is why regular dental exams are so important.
How do dentists find cavities?
Dentists find cavities through a visual exam, dental instruments, digital x-rays, and laser detection technology that can identify decay between teeth and under existing fillings.
What happens if a cavity is left untreated?
An untreated cavity can grow deeper, reach the nerve, cause infection or an abscess, and eventually lead to tooth loss. Early treatment is simpler, more comfortable, and less costly.
Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver fillings?
Modern composite resin fillings are durable and bond directly to the tooth, which helps support the remaining structure. They are an excellent choice for most small to moderate cavities.
Can adults get dental sealants?
Yes. While sealants are most common for children, adults with deep grooves on their molars and a history of cavities can benefit from sealants as well.
Where can I get cavity treatment in Daly City?
G Dental Group in Daly City, CA diagnoses and treats tooth decay for patients of all ages. Call (650) 991-7055 to schedule an exam.
Stop Tooth Decay Before It Spreads
If you have tooth sensitivity, pain, or it’s been more than six months since your last checkup, contact G Dental Group at (650) 991-7055 to schedule an exam with our Daly City dental team.