Cavities, otherwise known as dental caries, are caused by bacteria that inhabit the mouth and turn sugars into acids that break down tooth enamel. Cavities can cause pain and discomfort and if left untreated they can lead to infection and the need for more serious dental care. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about cavities so you can make sure your teeth stay healthy and strong!
The first thing to know about cavities is that regular brushing and flossing are essential for preventing them. Brushing twice a day with toothpaste that contains fluoride removes plaque from your teeth and helps prevent cavities. Flossing daily will also help remove food particles from between your teeth which can lead to cavity formation over time.
It’s also important to watch what you eat. Sugary snacks, sodas, starchy foods, alcohol, tobacco products, acidic foods, and sticky candy are all culprits when it comes to cavity formation. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables will help reduce your risk of cavities.
If you do develop a cavity, it’s important to get it treated as soon as possible. The most common treatment is filling in the decayed area with a special material such as silver amalgam or composite resin. Other treatments may include crowns or root canals depending on the severity of the decay.
To sum it up, cavities are an unfortunate part of life for many people but there are steps you can take to prevent them from happening in the first place! Make sure to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, watch what you eat, and see your dentist regularly for checkups so any cavities can be caught early before they become worse. If you think you may have a cavity, call us today so we can diagnose and create the best plan to care for you and your oral health.