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Cavities: Prevention and Protection

By September 22, 2021October 12th, 2022family dentistry, oral health
a child has a cavity on a front bottom tooth

Cavities: Prevention and Protection

What are cavities?

Essentially, a cavity is a hole in the tooth. In the early development of a cavity, it can appear as tooth decay or spots on the teeth. However, if left untreated, they can lead to tooth pain, sensitivity, infection, and even tooth loss.

How does a cavity form?

A cavity can form through the buildup of plaque from the foods we eat every day. When we consume sugar, the bacteria in our mouths create acid. As a result, acid stays on our teeth and attacks the tooth’s outer surface, which leads to decay. Over time, the acid can wear down our teeth and result in the formation of cavities.

Sometimes, cavities are unpreventable no matter how disciplined you are with your oral hygiene routine. However, it’s crucial to protect your oral health as best as possible.

How can I prevent cavities from forming?

Teeth are made of enamel, which is their outer protective coating. Once enamel is gone, it does not come back. Therefore, it’s imperative to protect your teeth and enamel as much as possible.

Here are 4 preventative measures you can take in your daily life to help decrease your risk of developing a cavity.

  • Brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day
  • Floss daily
  • Avoid sugary treats and drinks in excess
  • Visit your dentist twice yearly for a full examination

It is important to see your dentist twice a year as they can detect and treat any dental problems they find. Our knowledgeable and friendly dentist will examine your mouth for decay and other dental issues and present you with treatment options that are best for you.

Schedule your next appointment with Smiles by Design

Contact Smiles by Design to schedule a complete dental checkup including x-rays, cavity checks, gum examination, and thorough teeth cleaning. We look forward to serving you with top-notch dental care in our Wichita office.