Simple Tips to Prevent Tooth Decay
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November 11, 2020Teeth Whitening
December 3, 2020Simple Tips to Prevent Tooth Decay
What is tooth decay?
Tooth decay or cavity formation occurs when a tooth is attacked by bacteria present in the dental plaque. The acid attack by bacteria results in the softening of your tooth structure, which leads to more serious dental problems, and this needs immediate attention. Tooth decay is a very common dental problem and mostly occurs due to a lack of oral health maintenance. It can be readily identified with the naked eye as brown or blackish spots which can progress to larger cavities if left untreated.
Dentists usually identify tooth decay on a routine dental checkup and may advise treatment to prevent the disease from progressing. This highlights the need for and importance of routine dental checkups. Furthermore, if the decay is advanced, your dentist may suggest you get your tooth radiograph (x-ray) done to find out how much tooth decay has progressed.
In this post, we’ll share with you some expert tips and tricks on how to prevent tooth decay. Before proceeding to prevention, we must understand:
What causes tooth decay?
As discussed earlier plaque contains acids secreted by bacteria that destroy the outer layer of your teeth called enamel, eventually make way inwards into the pulp, and then the blood vessels at that point you feel immense pain and tooth decay becomes extremely severe.
There are many other reasons for tooth decay, such as:
- Dry mouth
- Some medical conditions and syndromes
- Acidic mouth environment
- Poor oral hygiene and
- Not seeing a dentist for regular screenings and checkups
Common signs and symptoms of the tooth decay are:
- Tooth pain and discomfort
- Pain during eating and drinking hot or cold
- Black or brown discoloration of teeth
- Chipped or broken tooth
- Pain on biting
- Bad breath and
- Bitter or unpleasant taste
What will happen if tooth decay is left untreated?
Most people don’t give much importance to tooth decay as initially, it is painless. Even if they notice their teeth are getting decayed, they continue to ignore it. However, this is where the problem arises. Because they do not get timely treatment, the decay tends to progress leading to more serious dental complications such as:
- Tooth abscess formation
- Swelling and redness of gums
- Severe pain and tenderness and
- Eventually loss of tooth
How can I prevent tooth decay?
If you practice good oral and dental hygiene and routinely visit the dentist, then it could help you avoid tooth decay. The following are simple tips to prevent tooth decay and improve your overall oral health:
- Brush twice daily
- Use toothpaste containing fluoride
- Use dental floss regularly
- Use a mouthwash or rinse regularly
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Eat a healthy diet
- Restrict intake of sugary and starchy foods
- Consider dental sealants treatment
- Consider fluoride treatments and
- Regular dental checkups and cleanings
Regular dental checkups – Key to Success!
Sometimes even if you keep good oral hygiene, you may not be aware that tooth decay has already been begun. That’s why it’s extremely important to have regular dental checkups & make sure you do not miss any appointments. Remember tooth decay is much easier and cheaper to treat in its initial stage.
Schedule your appointment online!
If you are experiencing pain or think you might have a tooth decay. Please do not hesitate to call us today at 713-330-7700 or visit one of our offices.