Since childhood, you’ve been hearing and reading about the dangers of dental caries (cavities). You’ve never taken the time to really research how they come about and harm your dental health, though. Your River Oaks dentist has done the “leg-work” for you. So as you read on, you’ll learn about the notorious cavity and discover how your dentist can help you prevent one from developing!
How Do Cavities Come About?
The key contributors to cavities and many other oral health issues are bacteria. They are always present in your mouth, and when you eat food or drink any liquid other than water, they flock to the leftover residue to feed on it.
You’ve heard that sweets are prime contributors to cavity development, and the reason is that the sugars they contain are the sustenance of choice of bacteria. Over time, if allowed to fester, the bacteria form clusters called plaque. The sticky, clear substance clings to your teeth and releases acids that bore into your enamel and create tiny holes called cavities.
How Can You Prevent Dental Caries from Developing?
Here are some simple steps you can take to prevent cavity development:
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene – One of the ways to eliminate the harmful nemeses to your oral health – bacteria – is to brush and floss your teeth after every meal. If that isn’t possible, then at least perform your oral hygiene routine twice daily.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly – A great ally in your fight against bacteria and cavities is your dentist and the six-month visits he or she offers. At these appointments, you’ll receive a cleaning and examination – two ways to ensure that bacteria get evicted.
- Limit Your Consumption of Snack Foods – Snack foods are notorious for containing large amounts of sugar. One way to shore up your oral health, then, is to limit your consumption of these nutrient-devoid products and replace them with healthier options like vegetables, fruits and other whole foods.
Be Proactive About Treating Cavities!
Dental caries can develop slowly. In some cases, it can take years before you recognize that you have a cavity because your enamel doesn’t contain any nerves. Thus, you won’t feel the presence of a cavity until the tooth decay has advanced to the sensitive dentin area, which lies beneath the enamel.
By visiting your dentist, the issue can be identified much earlier in its development so you’re able to receive less complex treatment, which saves you time, money and prevents any unnecessary discomfort.
To get on the road to excellent oral health and to protect your mouth, teeth and gums from bacteria, contact your dentist in River Oaks to schedule a visit today!
About the Author
A graduate of the University of Texas, Dr. John H. Krell has nearly 30 years of experience practicing dentistry. Throughout his career, he’s stayed on the cutting edge of the latest technological breakthroughs, providing his patients with state-of-the-art care. To enjoy the best in oral health, you can find Dr. Krell at his private practice, and he can be reached for more information through his website.