Introduction
The tooth cavity is the most widespread dental disease in all age groups. Cavities are not only aesthetically unpleasant but can also be painful and naturally irreversible. However, it can be prevented and treated easily when detected at an early stage.
What Are Tooth Cavities?
Tooth cavities happen when bacteria accumulate on the crown or in gaps of your teeth, releasing acids to erode the protective layer of the teeth, called the tooth enamel. This erosion causes dark spots and eventually holes in the teeth, often resulting in damage to the tooth nerves and hence causing pain, infection, and tooth loss. The environment inside your mouth is a major cause for the growth of this bacteria, paired up with unhealthy eating habits. A tooth cavity can be identified very easily. You can look for any visible holes or dark patches on or between your teeth.
Importance of Preventing Cavities
Cavities can negatively impact your oral health and overall health. It needs to be prevented to maintain the tooth structure and avoid pain and infections, while also maintaining a healthy, confident smile. Cavities can also affect overall health by increasing risk for diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular problems. Hence, making oral hygiene and avoidance of cavities even more important.
Getting cavities can seem normal at the beginning, but when it penetrates deep into the core of the tooth, it may cause pain and inflammation, and might require root canal treatment to prevent tooth loss at later stage.
Simple Steps to Prevent Tooth Cavities
Cavity can be prevented only by following some simple steps, saving you from pain in the future.
- Brush Your Teeth Twice Daily
Brushing your teeth twice a day can prevent the bacteria build up in the mouth. These bacteria not only cause cavities but also many other teeth and gum problems. It is also important that you choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride to prevent the yellowing of the teeth. Brushing twice ensures that there is no buildup of bacteria and debris inside the mouth for a long time. While brushing, make sure you reach all areas and stroke the teeth in a circular motion. The tongue may also be a housing point for the bacteria; cleaning it is a must.
- Floss Daily
The space between teeth is usually taken up by the food that we eat. If accumulated long enough, these can decay, housing more germs and hence, causing cavities. This food and plaque need to be removed daily. This can be done using a dental floss, that easily removes the accumulated plaque without hurting the gums.
Use a dentist-approved floss to remove the debris, and make sure not to reuse a floss to avoid infections.
- Use Mouthwash
Use a mouthwash to rinse out any remaining cavity-causing bacteria. After brushing and flossing your teeth, use some antimicrobial mouthwash to gargle. However, make sure not to ingest any in the process. After gargling for 2 minutes, spit the mouthwash. Talk to your dentist for recommendations.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet
Your diet also affects your oral health. Highly processed foods and sugary and acidic drinks feed oral bacteria and increase the chances of cavities. Unhealthy foods can also cause other tooth and gum infections that can lead to immense pain and discomfort. Rather, opt for a tooth-friendly diet like dairy products, fruits, and vegetables for a healthy mouth.
- Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins from your mouth and guts. This can help you achieve healthier teeth and a healthier body. Water is also helpful in removing any stuck food particles in your teeth, eliminating cavity-causing bacteria.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups
Have at least one dental visit every six months for check-ups and oral cleaning. These visits can be effective in early detection and prevention of dental problems.
Conclusion
Tooth cavities are prevalent in all age groups. However, they can be easily prevented by following good dental practices and regular check-ups at the dentist. Ready to take the first step towards good oral health? Visit Panache Dental Clinic.