Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, so it’s important to keep your teeth healthy and sparkling! Unfortunately, cavities and tooth decay are common problems that can make your smile look less than its best, but beyond cosmetic reasons, these conditions can compromise your oral health in more ways than one.
With that in mind, it’s crucial to understand their causes, so you can do your part in keeping a sparkling smile. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about these pesky dental problems.
What Are Cavities?
Simply put, cavities are small holes in your teeth. They form when tooth decay, or the breakdown of tooth enamel, occurs. Tooth enamel is the hard, outermost layer of your teeth, and it’s designed to protect your teeth from damage.
When tooth decay occurs, the enamel breaks down and creates a hole or cavity. Cavities are most commonly found on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth, or molars. However, they can also form on the front teeth and in between teeth.
What are the Common Causes of Cavities?
- Poor oral hygiene: If you don’t brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque will build up on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that can damage your tooth enamel.
- A diet high in sugar: Eating foods high in sugar can also cause cavities. When you eat sugary foods, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that can damage your tooth enamel.
- A lack of fluoride: Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent cavities. It can be found in some foods, water, and toothpaste. If you don’t have enough fluoride, you may be more likely to get cavities.
What is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is the process of a tooth breaking down, and is caused by bacteria in the mouth. The bacteria produce acid that attacks the tooth, and over time, the tooth can break down. Tooth decay can lead to cavities, and, if left untreated, can cause pain and infection.
What are the Common Causes of Tooth Decay?
Several things can increase your risk of tooth decay, including:
- Not brushing your teeth twice a day
- Not flossing every day
- Drinking sugary or acidic drinks, such as soda or sports drinks
- Eating sugary or sticky foods, such as candy or dried fruit
- Smoking or using other tobacco products
All these factors can increase the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on our teeth. When plaque isn’t removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar is much harder to remove than plaque and can only be removed by a professional. The bacteria in plaque and tartar produce acids that can eat away at your tooth enamel, causing tooth decay.
Breaking Down the Symptoms of Cavities and Tooth Decay
The symptoms of cavities and tooth decay depend on the severity of the problem. In its early stages, cavities and tooth decay may not cause any symptoms. As the problem progresses, you may experience the following:
- Toothache
- Tooth sensitivity
- Pain when eating or drinking
- Visible holes in your teeth
- Dark spots on your teeth
The Bottom Line: Prevention is the Key to Mitigating Cavities and Tooth Decay
Preventing cavities and tooth decay is important for maintaining good oral health. Some simple things you can do to prevent these problems include brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. It’s also important to see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. If you have a history of cavities or tooth decay, your dentist may recommend additional measures, such as using fluoride toothpaste or getting sealants.
With that in mind, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s crucial to see a dentist immediately. Cavities and tooth decay can only get worse over time, so be sure to treat them as soon as possible.
If you’re looking for a dentist in Lethbridge, you’ve come to the right place. At London Road Dental, I provide comprehensive dental care for all my patients. I offer a wide range of services, from preventative care and cleanings to restorative and cosmetic dentistry.
I believe that everyone deserves to have a beautiful, healthy smile, and I’m dedicated to helping my patients achieve just that.