Why Cavities Are Easier to Prevent than You Think

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Given the fact that cavities affect almost everyone at some point in their lives, you may be surprised that they’re much easier to prevent than many people realize. In fact, with the right care and maintenance, you have an excellent chance at preventing a cavity from ever developing, even if you’ve already had to treat one in the past. Today, we explain how patients in Dallas, TX, can more easily avoid cavities by paying attention to the most common risk factors for its development.

You can control what causes them at home

The condition that causes a cavity to form is known as tooth decay, and it’s the result of harmful oral bacteria infecting your tooth structure. To do this, the bacteria first weaken your tooth enamel by clinging to it in the form of dental plaque and tartar (calcified plaque). If you brush your teeth twice and floss at least once every day, then you can largely control the amount of bacteria-rich plaque that clings to your teeth throughout the day.

Checkups and cleanings boost your chances

In addition to brushing away plaque every day, preventing tooth decay and cavities also requires periodically removing tartar – the calcified spots of plaque that your toothbrush and floss miss once in a while. This means consistently attending a preventive checkup and cleaning appointment at least twice every year, or as often as your dentist recommends.

They can be fixed early with minimal treatment

One of the reasons cavities are so common is because they don’t many people don’t realize how easy it is for bacteria to weaken enamel in the midst of inadequate hygiene. Fortunately, if you attend regular dental appointments, then your dentist can catch a cavity in its earliest stages and treat it before it causes significant damage to your tooth structure.

Learn How to Prevent Cavities Easier

Cavities are the most common chronic dental issue, but that doesn’t mean they’re difficult to prevent. For more information, schedule an appointment by calling Gentle Smiles in Dallas, TX, today at 972-329-7645 (972-329-SMILE).