A healthy smile is part of everyday life in Stony Plain, whether you’re grabbing coffee at The Grind Coffee House, walking through Heritage Park, or heading out for a hike on the Iron Horse Trail. You likely brush and floss regularly, but occasional dental concerns still crop up, especially cavities. They’re common across all ages, and can quietly affect your comfort and confidence if left untreated.
Understanding cavities – how they start, how they feel, and most importantly, how to stop them before they begin – can make a real difference in your oral health. Today, we’ll break it down simply and give you practical steps you can use right here in your community.
What Is a Cavity?
In simple words, cavities are tiny holes in your teeth that form when tooth enamel breaks down. Enamel is the hard outer layer of your tooth — it’s strong, but not invincible. Every day, bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars from the foods and drinks you eat and drink. Acids produced by sugar weaken enamel over time.
If this acid attack continues unchecked, it eventually creates a small gap or “cavity” in the tooth surface. Once there’s a cavity, that area can trap food and bacteria more easily, which accelerates decay.
After the first 100 words, we’ll answer a few common questions people search for — and you may have wondered about these yourself.
What Does a Cavity Feel Like?
Many cavities start without noticeable symptoms. Early on, you might not feel anything at all. That’s why regular checkups are so important. However, as decay progresses, you might notice:
- A sticky feeling on your tooth
- Sensitivity to cold or sweet foods
- A sharp or dull pain when biting down
- A visible dark spot or hole on a tooth
This leads us to a frequently asked question: what does a cavity feel like? For many people, sensitivity or discomfort when eating sweets or cold drinks is the first clue. But sometimes the sensation is mild and easy to miss, which is why regular dental visits matter.
What Causes Cavities?
Cavities don’t appear overnight. They result from a combination of factors:
- Plaque buildup – The sticky film forming on the teeth of most people is known as plaque. When your preventive oral care lags, it doesn’t take long for it to turn into tartar.
- Frequent sugar intake – Sugary snacks and drinks feed decay‑causing bacteria.
- Poor oral hygiene – Skipping brushing and flossing lets plaque linger.
- Dry mouth – Saliva helps neutralize acids. Low saliva increases cavity risk.
- Deep grooves in teeth – Some people naturally have pits that trap food more easily.
You might search online for what cavities are caused by, and now you know it isn’t just one thing. It’s a mix of your diet, hygiene habits, and dental anatomy.
Simple Habits to Protect Your Teeth
Preventing cavities doesn’t require major life changes. It begins with consistent habits that fit into your daily routine here in Stony Plain.
1. Brush Twice a Day, the Right Way
Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush. Your brushing motions should be gentle and circular to effectively remove the bacteria and accumulated debris. Continue the same motion for at least two minutes each time you brush your teeth.
2. Floss Daily
Flossing cleans the tight spaces between teeth where a brush can’t reach. Food and plaque left between teeth accelerate decay.
3. Rinse (Sometimes)
A fluoride rinse can strengthen enamel, especially if your water supply doesn’t include fluoride. Ask our team if a daily rinse makes sense for you.
4. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods
Candy, juice, and pop are tasty, but frequent exposure to sugars and acids increases risk. If you enjoy these, try having them with meals and rinsing with water afterward.
5. Drink More Water
Water supports saliva production, which protects your teeth. And this also helps in eliminating debris as much as possible.
6. Keep Regular Dental Appointments
Professional cleanings remove hardened plaque (tartar) and let your dental team spot small issues before they become big problems.
This brings us to another important consideration many people seek: how to prevent cavities. These practical steps build a strong defense against decay when used consistently.
What Happens If Decay Is Found?
When decay is detected early, it can often be treated before causing pain or infection. That might mean a simple filling — a practical solution that restores tooth function and prevents further breakdown.
At Lobay Dental Group, we offer quality tooth composite fillings in Stony Plains, AB that match your natural tooth color. These fillings help prevent decay and maintain the strength and appearance of your smile. If there is deep decay or intense sensitivity, your dentist will discuss the best plan for you.
Common Myths About Cavities
Let’s clear up a few misconceptions:
- Myth: Only kids get cavities.
Truth: People of all ages can develop cavities — including adults and seniors. - Myth: Teeth hurt when you have cavities.
Truth: Not every cavity causes pain right away. That’s why professional exams matter. - Myth: Sugar is the only cause.
Truth: Sugar plays a major role, but overall hygiene, saliva flow, and tooth shape also influence risk.
Living in Stony Plain gives you access to a community that values healthy lifestyles. Protecting your smile doesn’t need to be complicated — just consistent. If you’ve noticed sensitivity, discoloration, or haven’t had a dental check‑up in a while, now’s a great time to get back on track.
Lobay Dental Group is here to support your smile with care that feels personal and straightforward. Book an appointment today to talk about your oral health and keep your smile strong for years to come.
People Also Ask
Q: How often should I get a dental check‑up here in Stony Plain?
Most people benefit from a check‑up and cleaning every six months. Your dentist may recommend a schedule based on your oral health needs.
Q: Are composite fillings safe and long‑lasting?
Yes. Modern composite materials bond well with your tooth and provide durable, natural‑looking results with proper care.
Q: Can children get cavities?
Absolutely. Children’s mouths can be even more vulnerable to decay, which is why early care and good habits are important.
Q: What if I already have sensitivity?
Sensitivity can indicate early decay or enamel wear. It’s worth booking an appointment so we can assess the cause and recommend solutions.
