The mouth has up to 100 billion bacteria, microbes in it on a daily basis, and although teeth are the hardest substance in the body, they’re not invincible. Cavities occur when bacteria makes its way into a small hole in the tooth, where it festers and decays over time, damaging the tooth from the inside out. If left untreated, the tooth will rot down to the root, causing pain and discomfort. The entire tooth will likely have to be removed at that point.
However, if you stay on top of your oral hygiene and catch the cavity early one, your dentist will be able to handle it. They’ll repair the damage using a filling, which can be made of composite or non-toxic metals. Safe and durable, your dentist will clear out the infected tooth, getting rid of all traces of the cavity before filling it. While it’s a short procedure, no one wants to experience cavities. To better understand what causes them, here are a few things you should keep in mind regarding your oral hygiene.
Gum Helps
We’re not saying that just any type of gum will help in preventing cavities. Specifically, sugar-free gum that contained xylitol has been shown to reduce cavities, fighting the bacteria that causes them and stopping the formation of plaque.
It’s More than Sugar
It’s common to assume that sugar is the primary culprit to developing cavities. However, it’s much more than that. Research has shown that other substances can create plaque on teeth that leads to cavities and decay. Acidic foods like sweetened coffee, energy drinks and others play a major role in creating cavities.
Everyone’s at Risk
No matter your age, if you don’t take care of your teeth using the proper oral hygiene methods and have a poor diet, then you’re at risk of developing cavities. Children and teens are at the highest risk, but to prevent yourself from developing this form of tooth decay, brush and floss your teeth twice a day or after every meal.
It Shouldn’t Hurt in the Beginning
In its early stages, a cavity shouldn’t be causing you pain. If you go for regular checkups, your dentist will be able to catch any signs of a cavity developing before it gets to the painful stage and fill it. With tooth decay that goes deep into the root, you’ll need to have the entire tooth removed.
Since 1995, King Ritson Dental Clinic has been providing the Oshawa community with compassionate dental care. Our highly trained dentists provide a wide variety of dental services at our Oshawa dental clinic, including cosmetic dentistry, emergency dentistry, dentistry for kids, dental implants and more. To book your next appointment, give us a call or visit our website.