Cavities – They’re Not the End of the World
Why do I have cavities?
It’s the word that people fear when they go to the dentist for their check-ups: Cavities. You brush twice a day and floss so why did your dentist give you a failing grade on the big oral health test? Here’s an interesting fact many in Carson City don’t know: cavities are a very common disorder, second only to the common cold, in fact. Still not making you feel better? Let’s take a look at the facts:
What is a dental cavity?
Dental Cavities are a result of tooth decay. Decay is the deterioration of the tooth structure; both the enamel and the dentin can be affected.
What causes a tooth cavity?
Cavities start to form on teeth when the bacterium in your mouth changes the food you eat in acid. This acid, combined with saliva and the remaining food particles in your mouth form plaque, which sticks to your teeth if not washed or brushed out. Plaque begins to form within 20 minutes of eating. It is this acidic plaque that damages your teeth’s enamel, and eats away at it, forming a cavity.
How can I protect from dental cavities?
While cavities are most common among children and young adults, anyone can get a cavity at any time. Most everyone will get a cavity or cavities at some point in their lives, just like everyone catches a cold. Dr. Clint Euse, Dr. Kelly Euse, Dr. Randy Wright, and Dr. Matt Lisenby say these simple steps can help prevent cavities:
– Certain foods are more sensitive to turn into the acid. Be sure to brush or rinse with water after eating sugars and starches.
– Maintain regular dental health check-ups and cleanings at Advanced Dentistry by Design.
– Use protective mouth rinses and pastes like Carifree, ACT, MI Paste Plus, and Flourides. Do not use rinses that contain alcohol. Alcohol is drying to the mouth and promotes an environment for the cavity-causing bacteria to thrive.
Cavities are nothing to be embarrassed about, and they are definitely not something to try and ignore. At Advanced Dentistry by Design, we want our patients to be able to maintain their teeth and prevent future cavities.
Cavities that are not caught early on at your regular check-up can cause tooth pain; especially after ingesting hot, cold, or sweet food or beverages. If left untreated, you may see visible pits or holes in your teeth or discoloration. With today’s technology, our doctors at Advanced Dentistry by Design can detect the early stages of tooth decay, using digital x-rays and a simple laser detection wand, that are not visible to the naked eye and save your teeth from major damage.
If you experience any symptoms or discomfort, or would like to know more about how you can prevent cavities, it is important to make an appointment for an evaluation. We would love to see you and answer any questions you may have. Please call our office at .