Tooth decay is one of the most common dental issues dentists treat. The early stages of decay can be difficult to detect, but it will eventually lead to some serious dental problems if left unaddressed.
Tooth decay is caused by acids that are present in your mouth. Some of these acids come from the things you eat like certain fruits and drinks. Oral bacteria create the rest of the acid. These organisms feast on food particles that are left on the teeth after meals, and they excrete acids after eating.
The enamel can withstand these acids, but when left exposed to them for prolonged periods, they can weaken a tooth's structure and its enamel. Once the enamel weakens, cavities begin to form on teeth surfaces. It always starts with a tiny dent, but the hole gradually expands as the decay continues. If left unchecked, the decay will eventually make its way to the pulp chambers which houses and protects the tooth's nerve and blood vessels.
Patients become susceptible to infections when the contents of the pulp chamber intermix with saliva, bacteria and acids in the mouth. Dentists can stop the early stages of tooth decay with dental fillings, but the later stages usually require a root canal. When a severe infection forms, a dentist may recommend an extraction.
Common symptoms of tooth decay include:
Preventing tooth decay is not particularly difficult. It is only a matter of making dental hygiene a top priority and avoiding certain foods. Here is how to keep tooth decay at bay:
Brushing twice a day will ensure the teeth are not exposed to things that can damage them for prolonged periods.
Flossing is just as important as brushing. It cleans the spaces between teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach. You should floss at least once each day.
Using mouthwash that contains fluoride ensures that your teeth are properly mineralized. Fluoride helps to strengthen teeth enamel which protects them from decay.
Sugar is not just bad for your health; it is just as bad for your teeth. Consuming too many sugary treats can lead to tooth decay. Sugar is acidic in nature, and it sticks on teeth surfaces. The bacteria that damage teeth love sugar as much as people do.
Water helps to clean the teeth and gums. It washes away acids and food particles that bacteria eat.
Regular visits to a dentist will help to prevent decay. A dental cleaning will remove tartar and plaque, and the dentist can also perform protective procedures like a fluoride treatment.
If you are particularly susceptible to tooth decay, it is a good idea to ask your dentist about other tips for preventing tooth decay since they are familiar with your dental history. Give us a call today for more information!
Request an appointment here: https://aestheticsmiles.com or call Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley at (415) 493-9143 for an appointment in our San Francisco office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Office.
Your first visit to a new dental office can be a time of great anxiety, especially since you do not know what to expect. The good news is that going to a new dentist is simple, and by understanding what the first visit will entail, you can make sure you are prepared. The dentist will…
Has it been some time since you visited the dentist’s office for an oral exam? If so, you may be wondering what the process entails. The following will help you prepare for your visit and alleviate any anxiety you may be feeling.While all dentists differ in some ways, most will follow the same steps during…
Patients often want to know how they can take better care of their teeth. Along with treating and cleaning a patient's teeth, we will also use this time to educate the patient on proper at-home care techniques. The bottom line is that proper oral hygiene takes both the dentist and patient providing care. Proper dental…
When you visit Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley, we can provide you with Invisalign braces that can straighten your teeth without the need for metal brackets and wires. This makes it possible for you to get the smile that you have always wanted without anyone being able to tell that you are in the process…
A smile makeover is a process that involves one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures to make a person's smile look better. Some of the treatments include bonding, dental crowns, veneers, and tooth-colored fillings. In many cases, the procedure can serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. The treatment options also depend on the patient’s individual condition.A…
Invisalign® aligners offer a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional braces. These aligners allow individuals to straighten their teeth without the hassle of wires and brackets. However, as with traditional braces, it is important to properly care for them to ensure their effectiveness and longevity throughout your treatment. Here are some essential tips to help…