Cavities are one of the most common reasons that people seek dental treatment. These small holes develop on teeth surfaces due to acids in the mouth eating away at them. Bacteria in the mouth consume sugars and excrete these acids.
The earliest stage of tooth decay can be reversed if a dentist detects it early on. It is known as the demineralization stage, and it can be reversed with a fluoride treatment.
The latter stages of tooth decay require treatments like fillings, composite bonding, or crowns to prevent the decay from destroying the tooth. An untreated cavity can also lead to an infection. That requires a root canal from a general dentist. They will clean out the contents of the pulp chamber and apply medication to the area.
Cavities are easy to avoid if patients take good care of their mouth and avoid foods and beverages that promote tooth decay. Here are a few ways to keep the teeth decay-free.
Brushing the teeth twice a day helps remove the things that lead to decay. Bacteria in the mouth form plaque, the sticky, transparent film that forms over teeth during the day. Plaque contains bacteria and their acids, so it gradually eats away at teeth surfaces.
Fortunately, plaque can be removed by brushing the teeth regularly. Brushing after every meal provides maximum protection, but many people have difficulty keeping up with that oral hygiene schedule. Brushing twice a day also provides adequate protection, especially right before bed. Saliva production is decreased during sleep, which makes teeth more vulnerable to tooth decay. Also, food particles and the acids produced by bacteria have built up all day, so it is best to get them off the teeth before going to bed.
When left on teeth for a few days, plaque hardens into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing. Tartar contains acids made by oral bacteria and can only be removed by a dentist during teeth cleaning. Removing it requires using a dental tool called a scaler, and it requires training and experience to perform the procedure safely.
Flossing helps get rid of plaque in the spaces between teeth. These areas are too narrow to reach with the bristles of a toothbrush. Aim to floss once a day before or after brushing teeth at night.
Sugar is the number-one thing that people who are concerned with cavities should avoid. Bacteria in the mouth love it, and it gives them the fuel that they need to make the acids that damage teeth. Sugary drinks or snacks should be quickly consumed and the mouth rinsed with water afterward.
Take good care of your teeth, and cavities will not be something that you have to spend much time dealing with. So, give us a call or visit our Hanford clinic for more tips on how to prevent tooth decay and for cavity treatment.
Request an appointment here: https://hanfordcosmeticdentist.com or call Rushi Panchal DDS at (559) 426-1124 for an appointment in our Hanford office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Hanford, CA.
A general dentist performs most of the treatments commonly used in dentistry. These oral professionals spend most of their time performing preventative treatments, like tooth cleanings, but they also perform more complex treatments, like root canals. A general dentist also serves as an educator, teaching patients how to properly take care of their teeth and…
A dental checkup is one of the most important things to have done. General dentists recommend that check-ups be had at least twice a year. People of all ages should make these appointments a priority, so find out why below. Just like doctors' appointments, dentist appointments also play a crucial role in a person’s overall health.…
Dental exams are an important part of visiting a general dentist. The examination portion of the appointment is crucial in catching any warning signs that may indicate problems, such as cavities or gum disease. In particular, gum disease can be difficult to notice as it may present itself without any major warning signs. With that being…
Practicing preventive dentistry strategies can help you avoid serious dental problems. It can support your personal goals in keeping your gums and teeth healthy. Prevention is always better than going through treatments for serious dental problems. If you want to know how preventive dentistry can avoid the development of a serious oral problem, here are…
Thinking about getting dental sealant treatment? Dental sealants are a vital tool for preventing cavities or tooth decay. Tooth decay is a prevalent condition among children and teenagers, and when unchecked, it can lead to other serious oral issues such as premature tooth loss and gum disease. In combination with other preventive care measures such…
Getting dental bonding can be a good way to improve your smile. It can be hard to know the right time to get it, however. The right way to determine if you are a candidate for it is to have an appointment with your dentist. Keep reading to find out more about a few cosmetic…