Combating Cavities: Understanding and Preventing Tooth Decay

Cavities, also known as tooth decay are a very common oral health issue. According to the National Institute of Dental Research, 90% of adults have had tooth decay in their teeth at some point. Even though they are common, they are preventable. In this blog, you will take a look at the causes, symptoms, and get cavity prevention tips. As recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Mayo Clinic. 

What Are Cavities?

Cavities are damaged areas in the hard surfaces of your teeth. They eventually lead to a tiny hold in your teeth. They are caused by different factors. Such as bacteria in your mouth, drinking a lot of sugary drinks, and not brushing your teeth properly. A cavity can mess with all layers of your tooth. They can affect your enamel which is the outer layer of your tooth. Along with the dentin which is the middle layer of your tooth and the pulp which is the innermost layer of your tooth. 

Causes of Cavities

• Bacteria and Plaque: Your mouth naturally has different types of bacteria inside of it. However, the bacteria in your mouth likes to feed when you eat food and drinks that have sugars and starches. The bacteria consume these carbohydrates. This produces acids. Over time, these acids can form plaque on your teeth. 
• Snacking and Sugary Drinks: When you eat and drink a lot of sugary food it gives a steady supply of food to the bacteria in your mouth. This leads to more acid production. This can make the decay process go faster. This is especially true if you do not brush your teeth after snacking.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: If you are not brushing your teeth correctly. As well as flossing acids in plaque dissolve your tooth enamel. This creates cavities.

Effects of Cavities

Cavities can cause you pain and sensitivity. This pain can increase as they get bigger and closer to the nerve in the middle of your tooth. If the cavities reach that part of your tooth it can cause an infection that can spread to your whole body. Symptoms of a cavity can include the following: 

• Pain: You can feel increasing pain in the affected area that can make it uncomfortable to eat or brush.
• Abscess: This happens with a bacterial infection that causes a pocket of pus. This pus forms in your tooth and can cause swelling. 

Preventing Cavities 

The best way to prevent yourself from getting cavities is by having good oral health. The following are some tips to make sure your oral health is top-notch:

• Brushing and Flossing: Brush your teeth twice a day. If you can floss after meals too,l it is extremely beneficial to your oral health. To clean between your teeth use floss to get any food that is stuck. It is also helpful to brush with a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
• Rinsing: To be extra proactive rinsing your teeth is helpful. Using a mouthwash that has fluoride helps fight against cavities. 
• Dental Exams: Keeping up with your dental exams is key. Seeing your dentist one to two times a year can help prevent problems. Along with catching any problems early.
• Tap Water: Most public water sources have added fluoride. This is true for Ventura County. Drinking this water helps reduce tooth decay.
• Balanced Diet: Eating fruits and vegetables is not just good for your gut health. They are also great for your oral health. Eating this food increases the flow of your saliva to keep your mouth rinsed out. Fruits with citrus have vitamin C. Vitamin C helps heal wounds in the mouth and keeps your gums healthy. Leafy green vegetables have minerals that can help strengthen your teeth.

Visit Clinicas 

Cavities are very common worldwide. However, they are preventable and treatable as long as you take your oral health seriously. By being aware of what causes cavities and their symptoms you can take charge of your oral health. For additional help in your oral health journey visit Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. to see your Dental Care provider. Clinicas has 16 Health Centers that can provide you with the best care to keep you and your smile strong and healthy. Make your appointment for Dental Care Services so that your smile can shine as bright as your future!