Why You Deserve to Know About Cavities

Until you are forced to deal with one, you might not consider knowledge about cavities something you have to learn immediately. Yet, the best way to deal with a cavity is to prevent it from forming, and understanding cavities is the first step to ensuring that you can protect your smile for life. Stemming from the dental disease known as tooth decay, cavities are the most-frequently experienced chronic condition among adults and children. Because they can cause severe, irreversible damage if allowed to, everyone should know about cavities and how to treat them, as well as how to prevent them from developing.

What is a Cavity?

In general, a cavity describes a hole or hollow space. When one develops in your tooth, it is because the tooth is infected by harmful oral bacteria that leave a growing cavity in their wake as they erode your tooth’s structure. A tooth cavity begins as a microscopic hole in your tooth’s outer layer of enamel, which allows bacteria to reach and infect the body of the tooth. As a progressive issue, a cavity will continue to grow larger the longer it is left untreated.

Can Tooth Decay Be Prevented?

The most effective way to prevent tooth decay is to keep your tooth enamel healthy and resilient. An important part of prevention is brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice every day, which removes bacteria-rich plaque from your teeth before they cause damage. Also, refrain from excessively sugary foods and beverages, which fuel cavity-causing bacteria to produce harmful acids and increase your risk of tooth decay.

What’s the Best Way to Treat Cavities?

To make sure your teeth stay cavity-free, you also must attend a dental checkup and cleaning at least once every six months. During your visits, our hygienist will meticulously clean plaque, tartar (calcified plaque), bacteria, and food debris from your teeth. We will also carefully check your teeth and oral tissues for signs of enamel erosion, cavity development, and other issues that require immediate attention.

ABOUT YOUR DALLAS, TX, FAMILY DENTISTS:

Dr. Tran, Dr. Hoang, and the friendly, welcoming staff at Gentle Smiles will do everything possible to make you feel at home. Contact us today by calling 972-329-7645 (972-329-SMILE) to experience our compassionate, effective, and individualized care. We proudly serve patients from Dallas, TX, and all surrounding communities, including Mesquite, Balch Springs, Garland, and Seagoville.