Gum disease is a common dental issue, but can be largely prevented through vigilant brushing, flossing, and making those all-important dental visits. Read on to learn more about the early stages of gum disease.
If you are prone to cavities or are concerned about preventing tooth decay, there are a few habits you can incorporate into your routine to promote good oral health. Avoiding a cavity can be as simple as brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist. However, there are a few other factors to keep in mind. Learn more about avoiding cavities and contact your Signature Smiles Dentistry for a dental cleaning and exam today.
Cavities are small holes in the teeth that result from decay. Bacteria builds up on the teeth and can turn into plaque, which eventually will weaken the enamel and lead to decay. Cavities are an incredibly common oral health issue that affects both children and adults. They are also easily treatable. For most cavities, your dentist will treat the issue by cleaning the affected tooth and using a filling to seal it. These days, fillings are typically tooth-colored and this procedure can be done in-office.
However, as simple as this treatment can be, most people do not enjoy the experience of getting a cavity filling or other dental treatments, which can involve numbing the area and drilling the tooth to prepare it for a filling. If cavities are left untreated, they can lead to more severe oral health issues that could necessitate a root canal or other procedure. Avoiding a cavity in the first place is possible by following a few simple guidelines.
Good oral hygiene habits are your first defense against cavities.
Adults and children over 18 months should brush their teeth regularly. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, brush gently to remove bacteria from your teeth. Brush for two minutes twice a day in order to keep bacteria from building up and turning into harmful plaque. If possible, brush after meals as well.
Brushing alone might not remove all the bacteria from your mouth. Floss allows you to reach the spaces in between your teeth. Floss at least once a day, using a clean section for each tooth.
Some inpiduals are at higher risk for cavities. Older adults can also suffer from receding gums, which exposes more of the tooth to decay.
The bacteria in plaque feed on sugar. When sugary foods or drinks coat your teeth, they can lead to decay. Swap out soda for tea or water, and eat whole foods as often as possible, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and grains.
Smoking can make it more difficult for your body to fight off infection. If you smoke, you could be more susceptible to gum disease, which can also put you at higher risk for cavities.
One final tip for avoiding a cavity is to regularly visit your dentist for dental cleanings. During these appointments, your dentist will check for cavities. If you wait until you experience tooth pain or visible signs of decay, you might require more intensive treatment for cavities. However, by catching these issues early on, you can treat them quickly and continue to avoid cavities in the future.
Visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams is a vital part of maintaining good oral health. Avoiding a cavity is possible when you stay on top of your risk factors and maintain good oral hygiene habits. If you’ve put off making an appointment for a dental cleaning, contact Signature Smiles today. We offer the following dental services for dental cavities in CO and your overall oral health:
Reach out to our team at 720.513.8405 to make an appointment. Take control of your oral health today.
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