A cavity or tooth decay is breech of the enamel that permanently forms in your tooth. Tooth decays are a consequence of various factors including, exposure to sugary foods and drinks, the use of harsh chemicals, poor oral hygiene and low immunity due to pre-existing medical conditions.
Tooth decays and cavities are the most common dental health problems in the world. Although cavities are common among children, they also affect adults. Regardless, if you have teeth you are at risk of tooth decay
When cavities are not treated, they grow bigger and affect the core layers of your teeth. Cavities can result in acute toothache, severe infection and tooth loss. The problem can extend to affect the jaw. Brushing your teeth, flossing and visiting your parramattadentalavenue.com.au regularly for a check-up, are some of the ways you can prevent cavities and tooth decay.
Symptoms
Symptoms and signs of cavities are different, depending on their extent and location. Cavities in their early stages may not present with any symptoms at all. But as the decay progresses, they can show some signs and symptoms like:
- Holes in your teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Pain when you bite down or constantly through the day
- When eating or drinking something cold, sweet, or hot you can have mild to sharp pain
- Brown, black or white staining on any surface of a tooth
When to see a dentist
It is important to have to visit a dentist regularly for a check-up even if your tooth feels fine since cavities form insidiously. However, you are advised to see your dentist anytime you experience a toothache or pain in your mouth.
Causes
Cavities are a result of tooth decay which is a gradual process. Below is how tooth decay develops:
- Plaque formation
Plaque forms as a result of eating sugars and starches and failing to clean your teeth well. When the food debris is not cleaned off and remains stuck on the enamel, bacteria start feeding on them and this results in the formation of plaque.
- Poor mouth hygiene
Not cleaning your teeth regularly promotes plaque formation and causes tooth destruction.
- Dry mouth
When your mouth is dry it enhances plaque formation. Saliva helps to wash the plaque from the teeth and it contains antibodies that inhibit bacteria growth. Without saliva, your defenses against plaque formation and bacterial growth are compromised.
Prevention of cavities or tooth decay
Keeping your teeth and mouth clean helps you to prevent cavities and tooth decay. Below are some tips on how to prevent cavities. Seek advice from your dentist on which tips are recommendable for you.
- Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste after every meal
If not after every meal, you are advised to brush your teeth at least twice a day using a good toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Remember to brush all areas of your teeth.
- Rinse your mouth
In case your dentist feels you likely to develop cavities or tooth decays they may advise you to rinse your mouth with fluoride. A mouth wash may be prescribed to offer protection against tooth decay
- Visit your dentist regularly
It is good to get your teeth assessed by a professional. Through oral exams, plaques can be identified early and removed. Moreover, silent cavities can be attended to before progression. it’s important to get in touch with your Parramatta dentist for professional oral check-ups and dental advice.
