One of the most prevalent dental issues is cavities. If left untreated, these microscopic holes in the teeth can cause pain, infection, and tooth loss. Anyone of any age, from infants to adults, can develop cavities. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the causes, precautions to take, and treatments for cavities.
What Causes Cavities to Form?
Food, acid, and bacteria are just a few factors that can cause cavities. The bacteria in our mouths make acid while we eat or drink because they are fed on the sugars and carbohydrates in the meal. As a result of this acid and the food particles, plaque builds up on the teeth. Plaque can damage the tooth enamel and cause a cavity if it is not eradicated by brushing and flossing.
Several things can lead to cavities, such as the following:
- Not regularly brushing and flossing your teeth.
- Overindulging in foods that are sweet or greasy.
- Dry mouth: Less saliva may encourage the growth of plaque. Due to acid reflux disorder, stomach acid can damage teeth (GERD).
- Genetics: Some people are more prone to tooth decay than others.
Cavities Prevention
Cavities can be avoided in two ways: by practicing good dental hygiene and leading a healthy lifestyle. Here are some suggestions for avoiding cavities:
Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth twice a day.
Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice daily for at least two minutes. Fluoride improves the resilience and resistance to deterioration of tooth enamel. You should thoroughly brush your teeth, paying close attention to the chewing, biting, and chewing surfaces.
Use floss every day.
Flossing is an essential component of dental hygiene. It is simpler to eliminate plaque and food particles between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach them. Use a moderate back-and-forth motion when flossing at least once daily to prevent damaging your gums.
Reduce your intake of sugary and starchy foods.
If you eat a lot of sugar and carbohydrates, your risk of getting cavities may rise. Reduce the amount of these things you consume and swap them out for fruits, whole grains, and other nutrient-dense foods.
Sip a lot of water.
Water consumption can help clean teeth of bacteria and food debris. It also prevents dry mouth and encourages oral hydration.
Regular dental visits
Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help prevent cavities. Early cavity detection and treatment are possible through your dentist. They can also apply fluoride treatments and dental sealants to safeguard your teeth further.
How to Treat Cavities
Your dentist will need to remove the decayed portion of the tooth if you have a cavity and fill the hole with a filling substance. The size and location of the cavity determine the kind of filler material to use. Typical filler components include:
- Amalgam (silver) fillings are strong and durable because they are formed of a combination of metals.
- Composite (tooth-coloured) fillings combine plastic and glass to mimic the colour of the teeth.
- Ceramic fillings are highly durable and have a natural appearance. They can be produced from porcelain or another material.
A tooth may occasionally require a crown if it has a sizable cavity or has suffered significant decay damage. If the cavity has resulted in an infection or an abscess, a root canal may be required to remove the damaged tissue and keep the tooth.
The Guelph Royal Dental Centre is dedicated to keeping our patients’ smiles attractive and healthy. Please call us to make an appointment if you are having dental pain or believe you may have a cavity. Our experienced dentists can perform a complete examination, identify oral issues, and recommend the best course of action for you. We provide our patients with the best dental care using cutting-edge tools and methods.
Remember that regular dental treatment is necessary to preserve oral and general health. A healthy mouth will improve your quality of life and lower your risk of developing chronic illnesses. Put your oral health first, and take precautions to avoid cavities and other dental issues. Your body and teeth will appreciate it.
We also provide preventative dental care services to help you maintain the health of your mouth and avoid dental issues like cavities. Our dental staff will provide regular cleanings, fluoride applications, and dental sealants to prevent tooth decay. Call us now to make an appointment if you require a dependable dentist in Guelph. You may rely on our dental team to assist you in obtaining a lovely, healthy smile! Make an appointment with us right now to receive the greatest dental care.
Please contact us at 519-837-1870 if you have any inquiries or worries about cavities or other dental problems. We are always delighted to assist our patients and give them the knowledge they require to make wise choices regarding their oral health.
DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.