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While we can turn back the clock for daylight savings, there’s no turning back time when it comes to cavities and tooth decay. Studies show that one in five Americans has untreated cavities, which occur when decay damages a tooth’s outer enamel layer, leading to small holes. Cavities can affect individuals of all ages, including children and infants. Factors like daily oral hygiene, diet, and family dental history all contribute to the risk.
Dry mouth, a condition characterized by insufficient saliva production, is another common factor that increases the risk. Dry mouth is often accompanied by bad breath and is more common among tobacco and alcohol users, individuals on certain medications, the elderly, and those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation.
How Cavities Form
Cavities develop when sugary or starchy foods fuel oral bacteria that thrive in plaque—a sticky bacterial film. These bacteria produce acids that erode tooth enamel, eventually reaching the softer dentin layer beneath, which protects the tooth’s pulp. They often form in the hard-to-clean areas of the mouth, such as the grooves of molars, between teeth, and around the gumline.
Signs You May Have a Cavity
If you’re wondering whether you have a cavity, watch for these common symptoms:
- Tenderness in the gums
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
- Persistent tooth pain, especially at night
- Dark stains or small holes on your teeth
- Pain when biting down
- Soft spots on your teeth
What You Can Do to Prevent Cavities
The good news is prevention is straightforward when you follow these simple guidelines:
Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks: Reduce your intake of sweets, sodas, and other sugary foods that contribute to plaque formation.
Brush Twice a Day: Use fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen enamel and brush at least twice daily.
Floss Daily: Clean between your teeth to remove plaque and food particles that brushing alone can’t reach.
Rinse with Mouthwash: Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay.
Regular Dental Cleanings at Lockwood Family Dental: Visit our dentist twice a year for routine checkups and professional cleanings to keep your teeth healthy and catch any issues early.
If you’re prone to cavities, consider using fluoride-based products or talk to our team at Lockwood Family Dental about applying dental sealants for extra protection.
Treating Cavities Early
Detection in the early stages allows for easier and less invasive treatment. Small cavities can often be repaired with a simple dental filling, while larger cavities may require more extensive treatment, such as root canal therapy, crowns, or in severe cases, a dental implant or bridge. By catching them early, you can save yourself from unnecessary pain and costly treatments in the future.
Maintain a Cavity-Free Smile
The best prevention is to prioritize your daily oral health habits, like brushing and flossing, and schedule regular dental visits. If you suspect you have a cavity or want to prevent one, call Lockwood Family Dental today to schedule an exam. We’re here to help you keep your smile healthy, beautiful, and cavity-free!
