Cavities generally result from tooth decay, a process involving multiple stages. It starts when bacteria inflicts damage to the hard surface of the teeth, and the destruction will spread in the deeper layers if left untreated.
If you are cavity-prone, take heart because the issue is greatly preventable. Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist say daily oral health and a healthy diet can be very helpful in preventing tooth decay.
Different Stages Of Cavity Formation
The first phase of dental decay involves plaque formation. Some strains of naturally occurring bacteria in your mouth flourish when you eat foods and drinks that contain sugar.
Many Dentist In Rancho Cucamonga will inform you that when sugars aren’t cleaned off your teeth, bacteria feeds on them and generates acids. The acids then combine with bacteria, food particles and saliva to form plaque, a sticky film that covers the teeth.
After plaque forms, the acids wear away the enamel, that is the tooth’s hard outer surface. These very small openings from the enamel represent the first stage of cavities. After this happens, the acid and bacteria attack the next layer of the tooth, a softer substance called dentin.
Bacteria and plaque keep their destructive march through the tooth before the tooth material, or pulp, is affected. At this advanced stage, the pulp becomes irritated, and the bone that supports the tooth may be involved as well.
When the decay reaches this time, you will experience sensitivity, toothache and pain upon biting. If the bacterial invasion causes the human body to send out white blood cells to fight it, the result may be a tooth abscess and a root canal may be necessary.
Cavity Prevention Methods From Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist
Being diligent and consistent in oral care can go a long way toward assisting you to avoid cavities. This includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day. If you can’t brush after a meal, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
Aside from oral care, several dietary practices can guard against cavities. Eating tooth-healthy foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese and other dairy products, will help.
Don’t drink sweetened beverages because the sugar they contain will fuel the cavity-forming process. Avoid frequent snacking and drinks other than water during the day to prevent placing your teeth under much more assault from the acids created by the bacteria in your mouth.
Learn When To Visit A Rancho Cucamonga Dentist
Since no indicators are associated with the early stages of cavity formation, you need to find a dentist once or twice a year for a cleaning and examination. It is important to find trouble spots and prevent them in their tracks before they become a major problem. Also, if you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, then make a dental appointment as soon as possible.
Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist will often let you recall that what causes cavities more than anything else is a lack of oral care, and eating unhealthy foods can contribute greatly to the issue as well. While tooth decay can have very serious effects, practicing these preventative measures can lower the risk of this happening.
In the event that you require special treatment for cavity prevention, then your local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist can advise you on what to do to maintain the health of your teeth.
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