Dental cavities are a common problem that can affect people of all ages. They are caused by the breakdown of tooth enamel, which is the hard outer layer of the tooth. This breakdown can be caused by a number of factors, including poor oral hygiene, sugary foods and drinks, and dry mouth. Cavities can lead to pain, sensitivity, and even tooth loss if they are not treated.
There are a number of different ways to fix cavities, depending on the severity of the cavity. For small cavities, a dentist may simply drill out the decayed area and fill it with a composite resin or amalgam filling. For larger cavities, a dentist may need to place a crown or inlay/onlay to restore the tooth's strength and function. In some cases, a root canal may be necessary to remove infected pulp from the tooth.