Tooth cavities, also known as
tooth decay, are small holes that appear on a tooth’s surface. These holes start as tiny spots but can grow large gradually if left untreated. Dental cavities generally do not cause any pain or discomfort to a person, so realizing that a cavity is there can be difficult.
Plaque, a sticky combination of saliva, acid, food particles, and bacteria, causes dental cavities. After consuming food and beverages with high sugar content, the bacteria in the mouth convert sugar into acid. Next thing you know, plaque is forming on your teeth. And the acid in the plaque slowly starts eroding the enamel of the tooth. Enamel is a protective, hard coating on the teeth that ensures protection against tooth decay. A weak enamel will put you at a higher risk of tooth cavities.
When cavities grow beyond a specific stage, a visit to a dentist for cavity treatment becomes unavoidable. So, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Thus, there are ways to prevent cavities from growing further when they are just tiny holes.
Four easy ways to prevent or control the risk of getting dental cavities are listed below.
#1 Brushing your teeth: It is necessary to brush your teeth a minimum of twice a day in your fight against dental cavities. Dentists recommend using toothpastes that contain fluoride, as the chemical helps in strengthening the enamel of your teeth. A strong enamel will be able to withstand the acid produced by the bacteria. Additionally, you should brush your teeth properly so that you clean all surfaces, i.e., top, front, and back. You can opt for an electric toothbrush or stick to a regular one.
#2 Cleaning between the teeth or flossing: It is common for food particles to get stuck in between your teeth. And if these particles remain stuck for long, the bacteria can turn them into cavities. Using an interdental cleaner or flossing daily is among the most appropriate ways to stop food debris from accumulating between your teeth.
#3 Using a mouthwash: You can find a wide range of antimicrobial mouthwashes available in the market. Most of these are clinically approved and prescribed for reducing the plaque formation. It is always good to rinse your mouth with a mouthwash after brushing and flossing to prevent cavity development.
#4 Regularly visiting a dentist: Certain cavities that can only be detected by dentists during a dental X-ray. This means that paying a visit to a dentist for routine cleaning or check-ups plays a vital role in safeguarding yourself against cavities. When you see a dentist near you for regular dental check-ups, it can also help in maintaining your oral hygiene. The dentist may also suggest some mouthwash and toothpaste for strengthening your teeth along with giving you tips on how to brush and floss correctly.
So, it is better to visit a dentist for cavity prevention in Oklahoma City OK, for a regular checkup. At Royal Oak Family Dental, we have the best
dentist for cavity prevention in Oklahoma City OK, who will thoroughly examine your teeth.
