Cavity Prevention

Cavity prevention is entirely up to you. Before you take offense at that, let us take the time to learn about cavities. First of all, cavities are the most prevalent dental issue in the entire world – so if you have had a cavity, you are not alone! Secondly, cavities can cause great harm inside your mouth, so preventing them is key. Lastly, understanding cavity prevention is the best way to keep your mouth health and to prevent cavities from forming.

Plaque is the cause of cavities. If you have ever run your tongue over your teeth late in the day and felt a sticky film on your teeth, then you have had plaque in your mouth. In fact, everyone develops plaque in the mouth on a daily basis. Plaque is made up of millions of bacteria that thrive off of the sugars that are found in the foods and beverages that you consume. As these bacteria congregate to break down these left behind sugars, they begin to produce acid. While this acid is good for breaking down the sugars, it is extremely destructive to your teeth. This acid is what begins to demineralize the tooth enamel, eating its way through your tooth until a hole (or cavity) has been formed. Once a cavity is formed, there is no way for the tooth to repair itself. Intervention from your dentist is essential in order to treat the cavity, fill it, and keep it from spreading to the rest of your tooth.

Daily brushing AND flossing are not options! Brushing your teeth helps to loosen the plaque from the outer surfaces of your teeth so that they are more easily brushed away. However, it is not brushing that is the most beneficial to your mouth – it is flossing! Floss is the only tool designed to reach and clean the tight spaces between your teeth to remove plaque that is trapped there on a daily basis. In fact, if you had to choose between brushing and flossing your teeth, your dentist would recommend that you choose flossing. However, we definitely suggest keeping up with both oral habits! Both brushing and flossing help fight against the continuous assault that plaque puts on your teeth day in and day out.

Siena Dental is here in Hendersonville, NV, to help you achieve optimal oral health. Cavity prevention is one of the absolute best things you can do for the health of your entire mouth, and we are here to partner with you. Call today to schedule an appointment.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Dave Mahon, Siena Dental