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
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Your Teeth and Cavities
Cavities happen as a result of tooth decay. Learn more about cavities and taking care of your teeth.
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Plaque and Your Teeth
WebMD explains tooth plaque and why it can harm your teeth.
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How to Prevent Tooth Decay
Learn helpful tips from WebMD on fighting tooth decay and cavities.
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Tartar (Dental Calculus): 6 Tips to Remove Tartar Buildup
Plaque and tartar on your teeth can lead to serious gum disease. WebMD offers 6 tips for keeping them at bay.
Features
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Myths and Facts About Cavities
The fear of cavities has been with us since we were kids. Still, we sometimes get confused about the facts and myths that surround these "holey" terrors.
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Don’t Cut Plaque Any Slack
Want to attack tooth plaque and keep it from coming back? Here’s how you can.
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Trick or Treat ... or Cavities?
Use Halloween as a time to teach your children important lessons about nutrition and dental care.
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Oral Health: The Mouth-Body Connection
Find out why the health of your mouth just may help protect you from diseases of the body.
Video
Slideshows & Images
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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.
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Slideshow: 10 Secrets to Whiter Teeth
Want brighter, whiter teeth? Find out which teeth-whitening strategies perk up your smile -- and how to avoid stains.
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Slideshow: 15 Common Dental Problems and Tooth Diseases
These tooth problems -- including chipped teeth, cracked teeth, impacted teeth, hyperdontia, cavities, and stained teeth -- can be fixed. This WebMD slideshow explains.
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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.