When a tooth has a cavity, sometimes a dental filling can be used to repair the tooth. Many dental professionals usually recommend treating cavities early to prevent complications. As with most other dental conditions, prevention is key to keeping your teeth and your mouth healthy. Here is how you can prevent cavities and avoid the drill.
Dental filling
Tooth decay often starts by softening the enamel, the outer protective layer of the tooth. If left untreated, it could become a cavity. Over time, cavities can get larger and eventually affect the deeper layers of the teeth. They can lead to tooth loss and infection. In many cases, if the decay is caught early enough, before it has led to a cavity, there are some options available that can help a person avoid a dental filling. But the most ideal way to treat cavities is to prevent them from occurring in the first place.
Risk factors
Everyone may be at risk of getting cavities. Some factors can increase the risk, however. These include inadequate brushing, particular foods and drinks, frequent snacking or sipping, and not getting enough fluoride. Foods that cling to teeth for a long time are more likely to cause tooth decay than those that are easily washed away by saliva.
Prevention
Good dental hygiene can help to prevent tooth decay and cavities. This involves brushing teeth twice daily and ideally after every meal, using fluoride-containing toothpaste. Floss or an interdental cleaner can help to clean between teeth once a day. Whenever possible, it is advisable to drink water that contains fluoride.
The dentist can also recommend regular fluoride treatments. These treatments can help to prevent tooth decay or slow it down. Professional teeth cleanings and regular oral exams can help to prevent problems or detect them early. This is why it is a good idea to visit the dentist regularly.
Eating tooth-healthy foods is always recommended. Foods like vegetables and fresh fruits can help to increase saliva flow and keep the teeth and gums clean. People should avoid sipping on drinks high in sugar or acids and frequent snacking. Dental sealants can also help. A sealant is a protective coating that is often applied on the chewing surface of back teeth. It seals off grooves and crannies that tend to gather food, which protects tooth enamel from plaque and acid.
Visit your dentist
Regular dental visits and good brushing and flossing habits can help you avoid cavities and tooth decay. Sealants and fluoride treatments can also assist to prevent a cavity from forming. Taking proper care of your mouth and teeth can help eliminate the need for a dental filling. But if you are not able to catch the decay early enough, your cavity should be treated.
There are many types of fillings you can choose from. Some common ones include gold, porcelain, amalgam, or composites. There are benefits and drawbacks to each option, but your dentist will help you choose the right type of dental filling for your tooth. To learn more about what you can do to prevent cavities, talk to your dentist today.
Request an appointment here: https://yousmiledental.com or call You Smile Dental at (408) 361-8133 for an appointment in our Santa Clara office.
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