Cavities, also known as dental caries, are one of the most common dental problems people face. They occur when tooth enamel breaks down due to the acids produced by bacteria in your mouth. While cavities can happen to anyone, understanding how they form and how to prevent them can save you from painful treatments and costly dental bills.
What Causes Cavities?
Cavities form when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and starches from the food you eat. This process produces acids that gradually wear away the protective enamel on your teeth. Over time, the enamel weakens, forming small holes or “cavities.” If left untreated, these cavities can grow, leading to more serious dental issues such as infections or even tooth loss.
Common causes of cavities include:
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Not brushing or flossing regularly allows bacteria to thrive on your teeth.
• Sugary Diet: Consuming sugary foods and drinks provides fuel for cavity-causing bacteria.
• Dry Mouth: Saliva helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids. A dry mouth can increase your risk of developing cavities.
• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Grinding your teeth, especially at night, can weaken enamel and increase the likelihood of cavities.
How Can You Prevent Cavities?
Prevention is always the best strategy when it comes to cavities. Here are some simple but effective ways to keep your teeth healthy:
Brush and Floss Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and don’t forget to floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth.
Limit Sugary Snacks and Drinks: The more frequently you eat or drink sugary items, the more opportunities bacteria have to produce harmful acids. Opt for water, cheese, or crunchy vegetables instead of sugary snacks.
Visit Us Regularly: Routine dental checkups are essential for spotting early signs of cavities. Our team at Petrolia Dental can clean your teeth professionally and provide fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel.
Use Fluoride: Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps remineralize and protect your teeth. It’s found in most toothpastes and can also be applied by your dentist to provide extra protection.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing gum increases saliva flow, which helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles, reducing cavity risk.
What Happens If You Get a Cavity?
If you already have a cavity, it’s important to get it treated by our dental team as soon as possible. Depending on the severity, treatment options may include:
• Fillings: A common and straightforward treatment for small to moderate cavities.
• Crowns: For larger cavities, a crown may be placed over the tooth to restore its structure and function.
• Root Canals: If a cavity reaches the inner part of the tooth (the pulp), a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth.
Ignoring a cavity can lead to severe pain, infections, and more extensive dental work down the road. Cavities don’t have to be a major problem if you take steps to prevent them. Make oral hygiene a priority, and be mindful of your diet. Regular visits to Petrolia Dental in South Edmonton are crucial for early detection and treatment.
Don’t wait until a small cavity turns into a big problem. Contact us today, by calling (780) 435-3784 to schedule your next dental checkup and keep your smile healthy and cavity-free!