Cavities Directory
Cavities are caused when the teeth begin to decay due to food being left on the teeth. The bacteria in your mouth produce acid and become plaque, which eats away at the teeth. A dentist can tell if you have a cavity if the tooth is soft when touched by a dental instrument. Treatments include fillings for common cavities and crowns for advanced tooth decay. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how a cavity is caused, what it looks like, how to treat it, and much more.
Medical Reference
Foods and Drinks Best for Your Teeth
Your diet can affect your oral health. WebMD tells you what you need to eat - and avoid eating - to ensure a healthy mouth.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay
Learn helpful tips from WebMD on fighting tooth decay and cavities.
Your Teeth and Cavities
Cavities happen as a result of tooth decay. Learn more about cavities and taking care of your teeth.
Plaque and Your Teeth
WebMD explains tooth plaque and why it can harm your teeth.
Features
Never Fear, the Dentist Is Here
For a variety of reasons -- from fear of the unknown to fear of drills or past trauma -- many children dread a visit to the dentist. Researchers from Scotland set out to determine what makes a child panic when faced with, in some kids' opinion, the evil incarnation of the tooth fairy.
Trick or Treat ... or Cavities?
Use Halloween as a time to teach your children important lessons about nutrition and dental care.
Oral Health: The Mouth-Body Connection
Find out why the health of your mouth just may help protect you from diseases of the body.
Don’t Cut Plaque Any Slack
Want to attack tooth plaque and keep it from coming back? Here’s how you can.
Video
Slideshows & Images
17 Oral Health & Mouth Problems
Sores, painful gums, bad breath -- what’s going on in your mouth? Found out with our slideshow of the most common mouth problems.
10 Secrets to Whiter Teeth
Want brighter, whiter teeth? Find out which teeth-whitening strategies perk up your smile -- and how to avoid stains.
The Teeth (Human Anatomy): Diagram, Names, Number, and Conditions
WebMD's Teeth Anatomy Page provides a detailed diagram and definition of the teeth, inlcuding types, names, and parts of the teeth.
Slideshow: Oral Health: Top Tips for Beautiful Teeth and Gums
WebMD Answers
Can you get cavities under your braces?
Teeth can decay with braces. Preventing decay depends upon the quality of your regular oral care, at home and with your orthodontist.
I had a cavity filled 2 weeks ago and it's still sensitive. How long will this sensitivity last?
Experiencing sensitivity after getting a tooth filling is not unusual, even for the next 8 to 12 weeks afterward.
How can I prevent cavities?
I'm getting so many cavities, and I want to know how I can prevent them. I brush, use mouthwash, and floss.