Cavities are a very common occurrence, especially in children. Cavities form as enamel weakens due to poor oral hygiene and certain lifestyle risk factors. Once a cavity has formed, it will require treatment to remove the area of decay while the area is sealed with a filling to prevent additional damage. While treatment is simple and effective, repeat cavities can weaken the structure of the tooth, eventually leading to more invasive restorative procedures, and in some cases, extraction of the tooth. As a leading dentist in Weatherford, we encourage you to treat cavities before they even start with simple preventative measures.
Good Oral Hygiene
The number one way to prevent cavities is to reduce the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth, decreasing tarter and plaque. Brushing with a fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, preferably after every meal, is the best way to reduce the accumulation of bacteria. In addition, you should floss your teeth daily to remove the bacteria and food residue between the teeth.
After brushing and flossing, you’ll want to rinse your mouth with a mouthwash. If you’re susceptible to cavities, your Weatherford dentist may even recommend using a fluoride mouthwash. If you don’t have mouthwash, rinse with water.
It’s also important to visit your dentist regularly to remove plaque and tarter from the teeth to further prevent cavities. In addition, your dentist will be able to spot areas of concern and use preventative measures to decrease the risk for cavities.
Dental Treatments
Your dentist can also use certain preventive steps to help fight off cavities. Often, dental sealants are used to add a protective barrier to the teeth. Most often, these are applied to the molars because food tends to collect in the crevasses, making them susceptible to cavities.
Your dentist will also likely use fluoride treatments, especially if you’re not getting enough fluoride through your diet or brushing. Fluoride is known to strengthen the enamel and prevent cavities. Fluoride can be found in many toothpastes, oral hygiene products, and even water.
Avoid Cavity Causers
There are certain foods and drinks that are known to cause cavities, such as acidic foods, soda, and sugary foods. By avoiding these foods, you’ll keep your teeth strong and healthy. There are also foods that are known to act as cavity fighters, like fruits and vegetables because they increase the saliva flow. Keep a healthy balanced diet to maintain your overall health while preventing cavities.
Treating Cavities
As a leading dentist in Weatherford, we are committed to helping you prevent cavities, which is why we offer many preventative services, including dental sealants and fluoride treatments. However, should you have a cavity that needs treatment, we offer the restorative services you need. We will remove the area of decay and seal the tooth to restore function while decreasing further damage. Depending on the severity of the tooth decay, we can fill the tooth, or for more severe cavities, we provide root canals. With restorative materials to match the color of enamel, you’ll restore your tooth while maintaining a beautiful smile.