Cavities are one of the most common dental issues treated by a family dentist. This article covers some important information your family dentist wants you to know about cavities. No one is immune to cavities, but practicing good oral health habits, including brushing and flossing the teeth regularly, can minimize the risks.
The following is some information about cavities, how they typically occur, and some recommendations from a family dentist on how to avoid them.
The mouth houses bacteria and not all of them are healthy. These bacteria feast on the sugar in foods and drinks, and by binding with the debris and saliva, they form plaque on the teeth. If the plaque is not cleaned off the teeth, the bacteria produce acids that break down the tooth enamel. The plaque eventually hardens into tartar. The consequence of plaque and tartar is cavities. Therefore, it is advisable to clean the teeth after every meal and visit the dentist for a professional dental cleaning on a regular basis.
Cavities can develop on both baby and adult teeth. Children whose teeth are just coming in need to be taken to the dentist within six months after the first teeth erupt. The dentist will be able to monitor their progress and recommend ways to care for the child’s teeth. Also, adults, including seniors, can get cavities, sometimes due to oral hygiene habits and the use of medications that cause mouth dryness. Biannual appointments with a dentist are important to ensure everything is in order.
Foods with high sugar or carbohydrates feed the bacteria that cause cavities. This includes sodas, juices, and sweetened coffee. Snacking throughout the day is constantly subjecting the teeth to acid attacks from bacteria. It is advisable to limit snacks to mealtimes, reduce sugary meals, and use straws when drinking soda to limit contact with the teeth.
Once a cavity occurs on the tooth, the resulting decay is irreversible, and the tooth will need to be filled with dental fillings. The more fillings a tooth gets, the weaker its structure becomes. If a cavity is not treated on time, it will spread. Cases of severe tooth decay often demand placing a dental crown or sometimes tooth extraction. Therefore, it is better to prevent the cavity from happening in the first place.
Cavities tend to progress slowly and may not cause any symptoms at first. By the time the symptoms set in and patients visit the dental office, chances are that the decay has done serious damage. During a routine dental checkup, the family dentist will check for signs of tooth decay. They have the training and experience to see signs that patients might overlook. Also, they examine the teeth closely and may request dental x-rays.
Cavities can wreak havoc on the teeth, but they are generally preventable. Our family dentist recommends visiting the dental office every six months to prevent cavities and catch them before they cause any significant issue. Contact our dental office today to set up an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://dragonflydentalportcharlotte.com or call Dragonfly Dental of Port Charlotte at (941) 676-9225 for an appointment in our Port Charlotte office.
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