



Madison Avenue Dentists, PC


Approximately 92% of adults in the United States between the ages of 20 and 64 have dental caries (cavities) in their permanent teeth. The numbers are only slightly better among children and adolescents at 46%. At Madison Avenue Dentists, PC, Stella Oh, DDS, and Ash Estafan, DDS, take a conservative, proactive, and preventive approach to cavities, helping patients in New York City, stay one step ahead of tooth decay. To learn more about cavity care, call the practice in Midtown Manhattan, New York, or use the online scheduling tool.

Cavities Q & A

What is a cavity?

A cavity is the result of tooth decay that erodes the structure of your tooth. Cavities occur when bacteria build up in the debris and plaque that accumulate on your teeth. These bacteria release acids that eat away at healthy teeth, creating a cavity.

How are cavities diagnosed?

As part of your routine care, the team at Madison Avenue Dentists, PC, closely monitors your teeth, often using advanced imaging such as X-rays and DIAGNOdent. The X-rays provide your dentist with a glimpse inside your teeth to detect any areas that may be compromised. DIAGNOdent is a cavity detecting tool that utilizes laser fluorescence. This new device is used to diagnose early-onset decay.

Some cavities develop in areas where your dentist can readily see the decay. As the cavities become more extensive, you may experience pain and sensitivity. Toothache is one of the most common signs of tooth decay because nerves inside your teeth are exposed as the bacteria invades a deeper part of the tooth structure.

Our team will use X-ray imaging to confirm the decay and determine the extent of the problem.

How is a cavity treated?

When it comes to cavities, early intervention is critical. If one of the providers at Madison Avenue Dentists, PC, finds a cavity, the doctor will suggest to treat the decay as soon as possible to prevent further complications. 

To ensure that your teeth continue to look great and function well, the doctors restore your tooth using a material that is strong enough to endure against chewing and fits in seamlessly with your existing teeth.

This tooth-colored material is called a composite resin filling, and it’s made from metal-free, resin materials that mimic the structure and aesthetics of your natural teeth. If decay is too extensive to restore with routine composite resin filling, then the doctors will recommend inlay or onlay or a crown. 

How can I prevent cavities?

The team at Madison Avenue Dentists, PC, is passionate about preventive care. The daily care you give your teeth at home along with expert care at the dental office are often enough to keep tooth decay from taking hold and creating cavities.

For your at-home care, your dentist recommends:

  • Brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush 
  • Flossing once a day
  • Rinsing after meals

When it comes to brushing, the team suggests placing your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and using small circular strokes to remove food and plaque (in other words, resist scrubbing away at your teeth with aggressive sawing movements).

If you’d like to learn more about treating and preventing cavities, call Madison Avenue Dentists, PC, or use the online booking feature to schedule an appointment.