how does a cavity form
dentalhealth
From one sugary snack to a hole in a tooth: the four stages of a cavity and five habits that help prevent one.
A cavity starts with an acid attack. Bacteria in plaque feed on sugars and starches, make acid, and that acid pulls minerals out of your enamel, the tooth's hard outer shell. It takes three things together: plaque bacteria, sugars and starches, and time.
The four stages of decay
- Acid attack: a chalky white spot appears on the enamel. At this stage it can sometimes be reversed.
- Hole in the enamel: a small cavity forms, and the tooth needs a filling.
- Into the dentin: decay reaches the softer layer underneath and spreads faster. Teeth often feel sensitive here (our tooth sensitivity guide explains more).
- Reaching the nerve: this can cause pain, and the tooth may need a root canal.
How often you have sugar matters more than how much. Every sugary snack or sip starts a new acid attack, and saliva needs time between attacks to repair enamel.
Five habits that help
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, which helps rebuild enamel.
- Clean between your teeth once a day, where your brush can't reach.
- Keep sweets and sweet drinks to mealtimes for fewer acid attacks.
- Drink water between meals to rinse and support saliva.
- Book regular check-ups and cleanings so small problems stay small.
As a family dentist in South Surrey, we use low-dose digital X-rays to spot decay between teeth early. Small cavities can be repaired with tooth-coloured fillings and laser dentistry, and a same-day CEREC crown can support a weaker tooth. If decay reaches the nerve, root canal care can often save the tooth. See our dental treatments for more.
Catching a cavity early keeps care simpler. Book a check-up at morganheightsdental.com or Call 604-535-8835.