Many people dread going to the dentist, even though it’s a necessary part of your oral hygienic care. You don’t want to be told you have cavities even though you swear you were taking good care of your teeth. If you’re someone who tends to get cavities, you may even worry about whether or not you can get multiple cavities in the same tooth.
Yet, seeing the dentist on a regular basis can help you prevent further cavities in the future. It also gives you the chance to ask any burning dental questions you may have, such as whether or not you can get multiple cavities in the same tooth.
Can The Same Tooth Get Multiple Cavities?
Unfortunately, the answer to this question is yes. Your tooth has 5 sides that could get cavities. The top, the front, the back, and then either side of the tooth. It is indeed possible for you to get multiple cavities in the same tooth.
A single tooth can also experience recurrent tooth decay. What this means is when you get a cavity under an existing dental filling or restoration. This can happen due to leaks and cracks in the restoration, as can occur if you clench and grind your teeth.
Can You Get Multiple Fillings In One Tooth?
While you can indeed get multiple cavities in the same tooth, you can’t always get multiple fillings in the same tooth. This is because there may not be enough space for multiple fillings in a single tooth. In order to fill a cavity, there needs to be enough tooth structure. If you have multiple cavities in one tooth, your dentist may not have the room to remove the decayed areas and place fillings.
If a dentist cannot fill a cavity, they will likely recommend a dental crown or another type of restoration. This way, they can remove the cavity and keep your tooth protected from further decay. Your dentist will always do whatever they can to save your natural tooth. Dentists only recommend tooth extraction when nothing more can be done to save your natural tooth.
What Can Cause Multiple Cavities In The Same Tooth?
We have it drilled into our heads since we are children that we need to brush our teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time, floss once a day, and see our dentist for professional cleanings as recommended. However, many people don’t do this.
Not taking proper care of your teeth can lead to you having multiple cavities in the same tooth. However, you could also get multiple cavities in the same tooth even if you brush and floss religiously. This can often happen if you have a sweet tooth or a fondness for soft drinks or acidic foods or beverages.
Other factors that increase your risk of tooth decay include:
- Dry mouth
- Dehydration
- Smoking
- Oral tobacco products
- Excessive alcohol use
- Bruxism
- Genetics
For instance, you could have a cavity near your gumline because of your fondness for diet cola and a cavity between two teeth because you either don’t floss or don’t floss correctly.
What To Do If You’re Concerned About Cavities
If you have any concerns about your likelihood for developing cavities, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist.
Often when we get cavities, we’re disappointed but not necessarily surprised. We can usually think of why we got the cavities, whether because we really aren’t flossing daily or because we have an addiction to our daily cup of coffee.
However, in other cases, you can be shocked and confused, because you swear you take amazing care of your teeth. Usually, talking with your dentist about potential reasons for your cavities can uncover what likely happened. For instance, maybe you take melatonin gummies after brushing your teeth or perhaps while you floss, you are not flossing correctly.
Some people are more prone to cavities than others. Talking with your dentist helps you to uncover and understand your risk factors, as well as what can be done in order to prevent future cavities.
Generally speaking, if you want to prevent cavities, you want to brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, and see your dentist as recommended, usually every 6 months. You also want to stick to a healthy diet and stay hydrated. Following your dentist’s recommendations for any tooth decay factors can help you prevent multiple cavities in the same tooth.
Are You Concerned About Cavities?
Eric Felt Dental is here to help! Contact us today to schedule a dental cleaning and let us help you keep your teeth as healthy as possible.
