Small cavities can turn into serious problems without proper care and immediate dental attention. For tooth-colored fillings that blend into your tooth and a quick, comfortable procedure to restore your tooth, reach out to our Fuquay-Varina family dentists.
Causes of Cavities and Tooth Decay
Tooth decay and cavities are damaged areas in the tooth enamel, which is the hard outer coating of the tooth. A buildup of harmful bacteria in your mouth will attack the enamel, eating holes into the the coating and attacking the soft dentin material underneath.
What you eat and drink play a major role in whether or not you develop cavities and decay. Soda, candy, and foods high in simple starches and sugar, such as milk and bread, quickly break down into sticky plaque that adheres to the teeth and feed destructive bacteria. As bacteria attack the tooth, harmful acids form which wears away enamel. Ideally, through regular brushing and flossing, the harmful substances will be removed quickly and not have time to create cavities.
Tips for Preventing Cavities
First of all, brush three times a day, and floss at least once per day. Good oral hygiene is your first defense against cavities and tooth decay because it removes the plaque and bacteria before giving it an opportunity to cause damage. Using an ADA-approved toothpaste that contains fluoride will build up and strengthen enamel, making it more resistant to decay.
Your mouth’s own saliva contains special chemicals to rinse away harmful materials, making it a natural way to battle cavities. Chewing sugarless gum can help stimulate saliva production and rid your mouth of bacteria as well as drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated and keep your mouth rinsed of particles.
Our family dentist in Fuquay Varina can also apply sealants to protect your teeth from cavities, although brushing is still important.
How to Identify a Cavity or Decay
While regular dental checkups are important to stay on top of your teeth and allow us to catch any problems early, here are some signs you may have a cavity:
- Increased sensitivity to cold or hot substances
- Pain in your tooth or near the gum line
- A change in your tooth’s color
- A dark spot on your tooth or along the gum line
If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them. The longer you put off dental care, the decay will spread until you may either need a root canal or an extraction.
Schedule an Appointment with our Fuquay-Varina Family Dentists
If you suspect tooth decay or a cavity, don’t put off getting treatment! Our team of hygienists, dental assistants and dentists in Fuquay-Varina are here to provide you with a comfortable, pain-free experience while restoring your tooth. Use the form below or call 919-552-2431 to request your appointment.