Serving patients in Rancocas, New Jersey, Matthew Girardy, DMD, is experienced in various facets of general dentistry. Among Dr. Matthew Girardy’s areas of focus is identifying and treating cavities before they compromise oral health.
There are three main types of cavities: root decay, pit and fissure decay, and smooth surface decay. The latter is the least serious and impacts the flat-surfaced teeth. Depending on the amount of enamel loss, an option such as varnish, gel, or fluoride enriched water may be recommended instead of a filling.
By contrast, pit and fissure decay can reach the tooth’s inner dentin and necessitate a filling, crown, or composite. In cavities involving the molars, a protective sealant may be applied to prevent further decay.
Starting at the gum line, root decay is a type of hidden cavity that can emerge unsuspected. Often occurring in tight spaces between the teeth, signs to watch for are tooth discoloration at the gum line and notches in the tooth at the point where the enamel meets the gum. In addition, there may be an issue of receding gums that reveal a yellowish portion of the tooth. This type of cavity is often identified through x-rays or intraoral cameras during a checkup.
Matthew Girardy 