How can I prevent cavities?
by Admin
Posted on 16-04-2023 05:12 pm
Plaque, a sticky film that covers your
teeth
and hardens into tartar, is caused by not cleaning your teeth properly, consuming a lot of sugary foods and drinks, or as is the case for many children and teenagers, a combination of the two. Plaque forms when starches and sugars aren’t removed from the teeth and bacteria turns them into plaque, which in turn hardens and becomes tartar. Tartar can’t be removed with a regular toothbrush, only with special dental tools, which is why regular dental checkups are so important to preventing cavities.
A cavity, also called tooth decay, is a hole that forms in your tooth. Cavities start small and gradually become bigger when they’re left untreated. Because many cavities don’t cause pain in the beginning, it can be hard to realize that a problem exists. Regular dental appointments can detect tooth decay early. According to the mayo clinic , cavities and tooth decay are some of the most common health problems in the world. Anyone with teeth can develop cavities, including babies. Finding out that you have a cavity might come as a surprise. This is especially true if you think you have a good oral hygiene routine.
Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth structure and can affect both the enamel (the outer coating of the tooth ) and the dentin layer of the tooth. Tooth decay occurs when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches), such as breads, cereals, milk, soda, fruits, cakes, or candy are left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth digest these foods, turning them into acids. The bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine to form plaque, which clings to the teeth. The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the teeth, creating holes in the teeth called cavities.
Tooth decay occurs when plaque forms on the teeth. Plaque is a film created by bacteria that sits on the teeth and eventually causes damage if it is not removed. Plaque contains acids that eat away at tooth enamel, creating small holes called cavities. As the process continues, the tooth becomes infected and the patient may lose the tooth. Tooth decay can be brought on by various factors, including: poor oral hygiene, poor diet choices, location of the tooth, and stomach acid. If you feel your child is experiencing tooth decay, it is important to see us for preventative care immediately.
What’s the outlook for people with cavities?
Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. It can be a problem for children, teens and adults. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, constantly forms on your teeth. When you eat or drink foods containing sugars, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel. The stickiness of the plaque keeps these acids in contact with your teeth and over time the enamel can break down. This is when cavities can form.
Cavities are more common among children, but changes that occur with aging make cavities an adult problem, too.
Tooth decay is one of the most common oral health problems, affecting people of all ages across the globe. It can lead to a range of problems, from simple cavities, through to more severe issues with wide-ranging consequences. What causes tooth decay? what are the consequences? and how can you prevent it? find out below.