Most people don’t know cavities can occur on or below the gum line. Let us get it out in the open. Gum line cavities exist and are pretty common. Now that you know this, let us find out what to do about them. 

We know that cavities are one of the most common dental problems that exist. Both kids and adults get teeth cavities and they are treatable. Cavities are mostly found on the pit of the molar or between teeth. 

You should know that you can also get a cavity on the gum line. Gum line cavities are completely treatable. The treatment may differ a bit according to the location of the cavity on the tooth. 

Do you think you have a cavity under the gum or near the gum? 

Well, all cavities need to be treated. Here, you will find out everything you need to know about gum line cavities. You will also find out why they occur and how you can get them treated. 

What Is A Gum Line Cavity?

A gum line cavity is a common dental problem that can affect both children and adults. You can get a cavity under the gum if your tooth has become exposed due to a receding gum. The tooth becomes vulnerable to decay. 

Gum line cavities occur when plaque accumulates near the gum line. 

You should know that you do not get cavities on the actual gum. Gum line cavities are mostly located below the gum line and are mostly found right where the bottom part of the tooth meets the gumline. 

What Causes A Gum Line Cavity?

There are several reasons why you may get a cavity at the gum line. 

As you age, your gums may recede. This exposes the bottom part of your tooth and makes it prone to cavities. Gum line cavities occur for the same reason as regular cavities. 

Your teeth become prone to cavities if you do not maintain regular oral hygiene. When you frequently consume food items that are sweet and acidic, the enamel of your teeth is more likely to get eroded. 

Insufficient or improper cleaning allows plaque to accumulate on your teeth. This plaque turns into a harder substance called tartar. 

This becomes the perfect condition for harmful bacteria to erode your teeth. If tartar forms near your gum line, gum line cavities may form.

Do You Feel Anything When You Get Gum Line Cavities?

Very often, the first signs of a gum line cavity are inflamed gums. Your gums may turn red and cause discomfort. People with gum line cavities may feel pain and heightened sensitivity while consuming hot or cold drinks. You may feel increased sensitivity while eating certain foods. 

If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may want to get your teeth checked. You should see your dentist so that they can check for cavities or other dental issues. It is important to get any cavities treated before they get worse. 

The only good part about cavities is that they are treatable. The more aware you are, the earlier you will be able to catch them and get them sorted. Once the cavity is caught and treated on time, you just need to focus on maintaining your oral hygiene. 

Gum line cavity treatment – How to treat cavities at the gum line?

If you have a cavity at the gum line, you can treat it just like a normal cavity. Cavities are most commonly found at the top of a tooth. Your dentist will most likely follow the standard treatment of filling the cavity. 

If the cavity is not very deep and has not reached the root, your dentist will recommend a filling as the treatment. Your dentist will numb the surrounding area and then remove the decayed part of the tooth. After careful cleaning, the cavity will be filled with a material suitable for you. A composite resin may be used as the filling material. 

However, if your cavity is far below the gum line, you may require a small gum surgery to reach the cavity. 

Can You Prevent Gumline Cavities?

You can prevent gum line cavities by taking good care of your oral health. If you do not have cavities, you can ask your dentist how to prevent cavities in the future. You can prevent dental cavities by brushing your teeth twice a day. Your dental cleaning routine must include flossing. Make sure you rinse your mouth after every meal. 

You should know that just brushing your teeth will not be enough to prevent cavities. You need to include flossing in your oral care routine. 

Flossing allows you to clean areas between your teeth that are not usually reachable. Many times, food gets stuck between our teeth. Stuck food may decay between the teeth and may cause cavities between two teeth. Flossing allows you to dislodge any food that gets stuck between your teeth. 

You may want to include using antiseptic mouthwash. Mouthwash is pretty effective in eliminating bacteria from your mouth. Mouthwash also prevents the build-up of plaque and fights bad breath. 

Conclusion 

Now you know that you can prevent gum line cavities. If you have a cavity on the gum line, you should find a dentist near you and get your tooth checked. Your dentist will treat your cavity and may suggest regular dental cleaning and checkups. 

A dental checkup twice a year may help you prevent most dental problems. Children are more prone to cavities and therefore, you should encourage your children to see the dentist at least twice a year. Cut back on sugary foods and drinks and follow regular dental hygiene that includes flossing. 

Cavities can be painful and nasty. It is best that you avoid them. If you have them, the best time to act is now. 

If you have any questions related to gum line cavities or cavities in general, you should contact us at Morgan Hill Dentistry.