We all want a healthy smile, but keeping cavities at bay can be challenging at times. Between brushing routines, diet choices, and dental appointments, it’s easy to wonder if you’re doing enough to achieve good oral health. Healthy dental habits play a big role in preventing tooth cavities and are often easier to build than you think.
At Soulard Family Dentistry, we offer top-quality dental treatments to preserve your teeth and maintain your smile. Whether you’re trying to avoid a tooth cavity or just want to feel more confident about your smile, our dentist’s office in St. Louis, MO, is always open to receive you.
Our dentist in St. Louis, Dr. Mandefro, knows how to best prevent tooth cavities and will educate you on developing simple, healthy dental habits to reduce your risk of developing cavities and other dental problems.
What are Cavities?
People often wonder, “what is a cavity in dentistry?” Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are decayed areas of the teeth damaged by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the surface of teeth. If left untreated, cavities can progress and cause severe damage to the teeth, leading to pain, infection, and even tooth loss.
Tooth Decay Symptoms
Recognizing tooth cavity symptoms is important in seeking timely treatment and preventing further deterioration of the teeth. There are many tooth cavity symptoms, and they can include:
- Tooth sensitivity: When tooth enamel is damaged by decay, the nerves inside the tooth become exposed, leading to increased sensitivity. This can make eating or drinking certain foods and beverages uncomfortable or even painful for people with decayed teeth.
- Toothache: As cavities progress and decay spreads deeper into the tooth, you may experience persistent pain in the affected tooth. This pain can be dull or sharp and severe, depending on the extent of the decay.
- Holes in the teeth: Cavities can cause visible damage to the tooth structure, resulting in small holes or pits on the tooth surface. These can be seen with the naked eye or identified during a dental exam.
Who is at Risk for Cavities?
Certain groups of people are at a higher risk of developing cavities than others. Children often have poor oral hygiene habits, consume sugary foods and drinks, and may not visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Their developing teeth may have deep grooves and pits that can easily trap food and bacteria, leading to decay and cavities.
Another group at high risk for cavities is people who consume a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates. When sugary and starchy foods and drinks are consumed, bacteria in the mouth feed on the sugars and produce acids that can erode tooth enamel, leading to the formation of cavities.
3 Tips to Prevent Cavities
Cavities are a common dental problem that many people face, and they can cause severe pain and discomfort if left untreated. Fortunately, there are some simple steps that you can take to prevent cavities and maintain good oral health.
1. Brushing Teeth Regularly
The first and most important tip for preventing a tooth cavity is to brush your teeth regularly. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least twice daily, using fluoride and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
2. Reducing Surgery Foods
Sugary foods can contribute to the formation of cavities by providing a source for the bacteria in the mouth that produce acid. This acid can erode the enamel on your teeth, leading to the formation of cavities.
3. Flossing
Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush cannot reach. If these particles are not removed, they can contribute to cavity formation.
Endodontic Treatment in St. Louis, MO
Endodontic treatment focuses on treating diseases and injuries that affect the tooth’s pulp. Our dental office in St. Louis offers top-notch endodontic treatment to help you alleviate pain and improve your oral health. We understand that undergoing endodontic treatment can be intimidating, so we strive to create a comfortable environment in our office.
When you visit our dentist in St. Louis for endodontic treatment, you can expect top-quality yet affordable dental treatments. With our expertise, we can help you restore your smile, alleviate pain, and maintain optimal oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.