What Are the Best Methods to Keep Cavities From Forming?

Cavitites Bryan, TX

Cavities are one of the most common reasons that people seek dental treatment. These small holes develop on teeth surfaces due to acids in the mouth eating away at them. Bacteria in the mouth consume sugars and excrete these acids.

The earliest stage of tooth decay can be reversed if a dentist detects it early on. It is known as the demineralization stage, and it can be reversed with a fluoride treatment.

The latter stages of tooth decay require treatments like fillings, composite bonding, or crowns to prevent the decay from destroying the tooth. An untreated cavity can also lead to an infection. That requires a root canal from a general dentist. They will clean out the contents of the pulp chamber and apply medication to the area.

Best ways to prevent cavities

Cavities are easy to avoid if patients take good care of their mouth and avoid foods and beverages that promote tooth decay. Here are a few ways to keep the teeth decay-free.

1. Brush twice daily

Brushing the teeth twice a day helps remove the things that lead to decay. Bacteria in the mouth form plaque, the sticky, transparent film that forms over teeth during the day. Plaque contains bacteria and their acids, so it gradually eats away at teeth surfaces.

Fortunately, plaque can be removed by brushing the teeth regularly. Brushing after every meal provides maximum protection, but many people have difficulty keeping up with that oral hygiene schedule. Brushing twice a day also provides adequate protection, especially right before bed. Saliva production is decreased during sleep, which makes teeth more vulnerable to tooth decay. Also, food particles and the acids produced by bacteria have built up all day, so it is best to get them off the teeth before going to bed.

When left on teeth for a few days, plaque hardens into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing. Tartar contains acids made by oral bacteria and can only be removed by a dentist during teeth cleaning. Removing it requires using a dental tool called a scaler, and it requires training and experience to perform the procedure safely.

2. Floss daily

Flossing helps get rid of plaque in the spaces between teeth. These areas are too narrow to reach with the bristles of a toothbrush. Aim to floss once a day before or after brushing teeth at night.

3. Limit exposure to sugar

Sugar is the number-one thing that people who are concerned with cavities should avoid. Bacteria in the mouth love it, and it gives them the fuel that they need to make the acids that damage teeth. Sugary drinks or snacks should be quickly consumed and the mouth rinsed with water afterward.

We can help prevent cavities

Take good care of your teeth, and cavities will not be something that you have to spend much time dealing with. So, give us a call or visit our Bryan clinic for more tips on how to prevent tooth decay and for cavity treatment.

Request an appointment here: http://www.riversdentistry.com or call Rivers Family Dentistry at (979) 710-2216 for an appointment in our Bryan office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Bryan, TX.

Related Posts

General Dentist Vs. Specialist: What’s The Difference?

Dentistry encompasses a broad range of skills and areas of focus designed to maintain or improve oral health. General dentists are the most commonly thought of practitioners, and rightfully so, with many seeing them at least twice a year. However, there are a host of dental specialists that individuals may need to encounter at some…

Oral Hygiene Tips From A General Dentist

Maintaining good oral hygiene is an essential part of overall health and well-being. It can prevent issues like tooth decay and gum disease. A general dentist can help educate patients about properly caring for their teeth, treating oral health issues, and more. Here are some practical tips to help you achieve a bright and healthy…

How A General Dentist Helps To Relieve Dental Anxiety

Talking to your general dentist about your dental anxiety can help start your dental appointment the right way. This condition can prevent you from getting the right dental treatments. Keeping it at bay is possible during the visit. Here are the details on how your general dentist can help relieve your dental anxiety.This is an…

How A General Dentist Treats Tooth Pain

While tooth pain can vary in severity and sensation, general dentists can determine the source, provide treatment, and ensure the patient has everything they need to maintain their oral health. The causes of tooth pain can vary and often result in patients trying to treat it by themselves. However, when the pain is consistent, the…

Related Posts

When Should You Go To An Emergency Dentist Vs  The ER?

When Should You Go To An Emergency Dentist Vs. The ER?

When a dental emergency hits, it is important to know where to go to access the right care. An emergency dentist is often the right provider, although life-threatening emergencies require a trip to the emergency room. Learning when to go to the emergency dentist versus the emergency room can save you time, money, and discomfort.…

When Are Dental Crowns Necessary?

When Are Dental Crowns Necessary?

Curious about when dental crowns are needed? Read on to learn more about this type of dental restoration. Oral health is often indicative of one's overall well-being. Although teeth are strong, they are susceptible to many problems that can weaken them. Dental crowns are the treatment of choice for such cases. These tooth-shaped caps fit…