cavity

Definition

A cavity is a hole in a tooth that is caused by tooth decay. Tooth decay is a process that starts when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that attack the tooth enamel. Over time, the enamel can break down, leaving a hole in the tooth.

Cavities can be caused by a number of factors, including:

Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can leave plaque on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can eventually cause tooth decay.
Diet: Eating sugary foods and drinks can also increase your risk of cavities. The acids in these foods can attack the tooth enamel.
Dry mouth: If you have a dry mouth, your saliva cannot wash away the bacteria that cause tooth decay.
Certain medications: Some medications, such as those for asthma and allergies, can dry out your mouth and increase your risk of cavities.
Cavities can be painful, and they can also lead to more serious problems, such as infection and tooth loss. If you think you have a cavity, it is important to see a dentist right away.

Here are some of the symptoms of a cavity:

Pain: A cavity can cause sharp or dull pain, especially when you eat or drink something sweet or cold.
Sensitivity: You may be sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks.
Discolouration: The tooth may become discoloured, usually brown or black.
Loose filling: If you have a filling, it may become loose or fall out.

If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist right away. Early detection and treatment of cavities can help to prevent more serious problems.

How can the word be used?

The cavity in the rock was filled with water.

Different forms of the word

Noun: cavity (plural: cavities).

Adjective: cavitary.

Verb: to cavitate.

Etymology

The word "cavity" comes from the Latin word "cavitas", which means "hollow space". The Latin word "cavitas" is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *ka-, which also means "hollow space".

Question

What happens when you have a cavity in your tooth?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

What is a cavity, and how does it form?

Answer:

A cavity is a hole in a tooth that is caused by tooth decay. Tooth decay is a process that occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down the enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth. As the enamel breaks down, it creates a small hole in the tooth. If the hole is not treated, it can get bigger and deeper, eventually reaching the pulp, the soft inner layer of the tooth.

There are a number of things that can contribute to the formation of cavities, including:

Poor oral hygiene: If you do not brush your teeth regularly, plaque can build up on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can cause tooth decay.

Diet: Eating sugary foods and drinks can increase your risk of cavities. The bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar, and as they break down the sugar, they produce acids that can damage your teeth.

Genetics: Some people are more prone to cavities than others. This may be due to their genetics or their diet.

If you have a cavity, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will be able to clean out the cavity and fill it with a material that will protect the tooth from further decay.