A Guide to Preventing Dental Cavities
At Defuniak Springs Family Dental, your oral health is our top priority. One of the most common dental concerns from patients of all ages is cavities. While cavities are incredibly common, understanding what causes them, how to prevent them, and how we treat them can go a long way in keeping your smile healthy and strong.
What Are Cavities?
Cavities are tiny openings or holes on a tooth’s surface caused by decay. Left untreated, cavities can become larger, cause pain, and even lead to infection or tooth loss.
Cavities form when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the tooth and breaks down sugars and starches from food. This process produces acids that erode the enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth.
Common Causes of Cavities
- Poor oral hygiene: Infrequent brushing or flossing allows plaque to build up and acids to damage enamel.
- Sugary food or drinks: Constant exposure to sugar feeds the bacteria that create harmful acids.
- Dry mouth: A lack of saliva reduces the mouth’s ability to neutralize acids and rinse away food particles.
- Worn fillings or dental devices: Older dental work can weaken and allow bacteria to slip underneath.
- Deep tooth grooves and pits: Some people have naturally deeper grooves in their teeth, making it easier for bacteria to hide and harder to clean.
- Genetics: Some people have inherited a variation in enamel development associated with increased occurrence of cavities.
Signs You May Have a Cavity
Cavities often start small and develop without noticeable symptoms. As they progress, you may experience:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Toothaches or spontaneous pain
- Visible holes or pits in your teeth
- Staining
- Pain when biting down
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an exam.
Treating Cavities
Early detection is key. Treatment is quick and minimally invasive when we catch a cavity in its early stages. Here are the most common treatment options:
- Fillings – We remove the decayed portion of your tooth and fill it with a durable composite material that blends in with your natural tooth color.
- Crowns – A crown may be needed to restore strength and structure for larger cavities or weakened teeth.
- Root canals – If decay reaches the inner pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be required to remove the infected tissue and preserve the tooth.
- Tooth extraction – In severe cases where the tooth can’t be saved, extraction may be necessary, followed by a restorative option like a bridge or dental implant.
Preventing Dental Cavities: What You Can Do
The good news is that cavities are largely preventable. Here are some simple steps you can take:
- Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
- Drink plenty of water, especially if you suffer from dry mouth.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks.
- Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups.
At Defuniak Springs Family Dental, we believe prevention is the best form of dental care. Our friendly team is here to help you maintain great oral hygiene habits and catch any issues before they become serious. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
