Cavities are tiny craters in your teeth that can take the sparkle out of your smile and make the simple, necessary act of eating uncomfortable and even painful. The good news is that these dental nuisances are the results of specific factors and behaviors that are within our control. Today, we’re digging into what cavities are, what causes them, and how to prevent them.
What Exactly Is a Cavity?
Cavities (or, in technical terminology, dental caries) are small holes that develop on the surface of teeth. They're formed when the protective outer layer of your teeth, or “enamel,” erodes and allows damaging bacterial buildup. Left untreated, cavities can lead to more significant dental issues like infection, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.
What Are the Causes of Cavities?
Cavities in teeth develop as a result of various factors and behaviors. The most common among these are:
- Bacteria. Your mouth is home to various bacteria. Some, which feed on sugars from your diet, produce acids that eat away at tooth enamel.
- Poor oral hygiene. Improper brushing and flossing leave food particles between your teeth and create a breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria.
- Sugary and acidic foods. Diets high in sugary and acidic foods and beverages promote bacterial buildup and eat away at tooth enamel.
- Dry mouth. Saliva helps neutralize acids and cleanse your mouth.
- Tooth Shape and Position. Teeth with deep grooves or in tight spaces are tougher to clean and care for and can present an increased cavity risk.
Steering Clear of Cavities
Cavities may be common, but they're also preventable. By understanding their causes and taking proactive measures, you can keep your smile gleaming and healthy!
Here are some tips for keeping cavities at bay:
- Good oral hygiene. Brush at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
- Eat a balanced diet. Limit your consumption of especially sugary and acidic foods and beverages and focus on maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet.
- Fluoride. Use fluoride toothpaste and consider professional fluoride treatments.
- Regular dental visits. Schedule regular checkups and teeth cleanings to catch and treat cavities early.
- Stay hydrated. Drink water to help rinse away food particles and bacteria.
Cavity Prevention in Durham, NC
If you’re in Durham and looking for a top-quality dental practice to help you and your loved ones stay cavity-free or quickly and painlessly address minor cavities long before they become big problems, contact dentists Dr. Kate Dolin and Dr. Adam Spriggs and the team at The Smile Shop to schedule an appointment!