Categories: Tooth Decay/Cavities

How To Prevent Cavities

Did you know that nearly a quarter of all adults in the US have at least one cavity? This common dental dilemma is caused by bacteria that form plaque on your enamel. When this is not removed, the plaque deteriorates your enamel. This can create a hole in your tooth, which leads to sensitivity and discomfort if left alone. This can continue to progress if not properly treated. Gentle Smiles in Dallas, Texas offers fillings that can restore your pearly whites after cavities. In today’s blog, we will explain how you can prevent cavities.

Prevention At Home

Factors such as your diet and oral hygiene habits play a huge role in the likelihood of developing cavities. To reduce the chances of tooth decay, there are a few steps you can take. First, remember to follow a good hygiene routine. You should be brushing and flossing every day, twice a day. Brushing your teeth helps remove food particles from the day. Flossing is a critical step that many people leave out of their routines. This helps get rid of debris that your toothbrush cannot reach. Not only does flossing reduce the risk of cavities, but this step also helps prevent gum disease.

Eating certain foods can also increase the chances of a cavity developing. We do not want you to miss out on your favorite beverages and snacks, but you should be conscious of the amount of sugary and acidic items you consume. In addition to this, snacking frequently throughout the day creates a continual layer on your teeth. This weakens your enamel and in exchange, can create cavities. If you are a frequent snacker, do your best to drink water in between to rinse out your mouth.

How Checkups And Cleanings Help

Visiting the dentist every six months is vital in intercepting tooth decay. Cavities do not just appear overnight. They develop in several stages, starting with demineralization. During your biannual exam, your dentist will check for early signs of decay, such as changes in texture, or sensitivity in the area. X-rays can also detect tooth decay early. If decay is noticed before a cavity forms, fluoride treatment and improved oral hygiene can reverse the problem. A filling can also be used to treat a carie if it has already formed.

Getting A Tooth Filled

Fillings are a common restoration treatment done to stop the progression of a cavity. The decay will be removed, and material will be added to the area. This prevents bacteria from entering the tooth. If a cavity is not treated in time, the damage may require more invasive treatments.