Cavities are one of the most common reasons people see the dentist.
They form when harmful bacteria found in the mouth feed on the food particles that linger after your meals. When they eat, bacteria release acids that slowly break down tooth enamel and create a cavity.
The only way to treat a cavity is by getting restorative dental treatment. But can patients prevent cavities from forming in the first place?
Keep reading to find out!
Cavities are bad news for your oral health. Realistically, patients usually notice cavities only after they’ve already done permanent damage to the tooth.
Cavities are permanent holes in your tooth. The bacteria break down tooth enamel and, over time, continue to make the hole bigger. Left unchecked, the cavity can lead to a tooth infection, which requires a root canal to treat or even extraction in severe cases.
Prevention is the best strategy to protect your overall oral health. Reducing your risk for cavities also protects your gums and can even improve your smile’s appearance.
Here are the steps you need to take to prevent cavities:
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day (but preferably after every meal) and floss once before bedtime. This helps remove food particles and bacteria from your mouth and reduces the risk of cavities.
Fluoride helps keep your teeth strong and can protect them from cavities. You can use toothpaste and even mouthwash with fluoride to give your teeth this extra safety net.
Tap water is also enriched with fluoride. You can drink a tall glass after every meal to cleanse your mouth.
Fresh fruits and vegetables encourage saliva production, which helps flush out food particles and bacteria in your mouth. Carbs and sugars are bacteria’s favorite foods too, and eating them in high quantities increases the risk of cavities if you don't always brush your teeth right after.
Smoking dries the mouth, and without saliva, bacteria are left to wreak havoc on your teeth.
Professional dental cleanings remove all bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup from the mouth, including areas that are difficult to reach with your toothbrush.
During the cleaning, a dentist can also closely inspect your mouth and spot cavities in their beginning stages before they cause too much damage. Experts recommend getting a professional dental cleaning every six months or so.
Dr. Brookes is here to support your efforts to prevent cavities with professional dental cleanings and other preventative care treatments.
Schedule a consultation at Acacia Dental Care, LLC, online, or call us at (414) 212-8291 for a short chat.
