24 May Everything There is to Know About Cavities in Lincolnwood, Illinois
Improper dental care leads to a number of tooth and gum problems. One of the most common diseases associated with teeth is the presence of cavities. In fact, it is estimated that around 91% of Americans have suffered from at least one cavity in their lifetime.
Interested in learning more about this all-too-common tooth decay issue? Then read on! Below, we’re going to explain more about cavities.
What is a Cavity?
Simply put, a cavity is a hole in a tooth. These holes forms as a result of prolonged tooth decay, growing deeper and wider as more decay occurs.
Cavities can form on all surfaces of a tooth.Often times, cavities will form in the spots that are most difficult to keep clean like the sides of the teeth that contact each other.
While cavities aren’t the most serious of oral health issues, they still require a good amount of attention. If they’re not filled in a timely manner, even bigger oral health issues can arise, such as tooth loss. For this reason, it’s important to have your teeth consistently assessed by a dentist on a regular basis.
What is the Treatment for Cavities?
Once a portion of a tooth is lost, it can’t grow back. The only option is to replace it with another material such as composite, ceramic, or gold. This is done using a process known as a filling, wherein decayed tooth matter is drilled out and replaced with one of the aforementioned materials. It takes about an hour per tooth and is a safe and standard procedure.
How Can You Prevent Cavities?
While fillings are usually successful and effective, they are still better if avoided. Avoiding fillings, of course, requires the prevention of cavities.
How can you avoid cavities? Generally, by utilizing the following tips:
Brushing Regularly
If you really want to avoid cavities, you should brush your teeth after every meal. If you can’t do this, you should, at the very least, make sure to brush twice a day, once when you wake up and once before you go to sleep for two minutes duration each time.
Flossing Regularly
Flossing is vital to maintaining good oral health. Flossing cleans the areas between teeth that brushing misses. If you want to prevent cavities, you should floss between all of your teeth at least once a day.
Staying Away from Certain Foods
Certain foods cause tooth decay faster than others. Sugars, acids, and starches can be exceedingly harmful to teeth. For this reason, it’s best to keep their consumption to a minimum. It is better to consume foods like this in one sitting versus throughout the day.
Visiting the Dentist Regularly
Cavities don’t just pop up out of nowhere. They form over months of neglect and improper oral health practices.
How can you tell whether you’re taking care of your teeth in the correct manner? By visiting your dentist at least twice a year. Not only will he or she catch problems early, but he or she will also provide your teeth with a proper cleaning, reducing the risk of further decay as much as possible.
Schedule a Dentist Appointment in Lincolnwood, Illinois
Do you fear that you may have cavities? If so, you’re highly advised to schedule a dental appointment. Looking to schedule a dental appointment in Lincolnwood, Illinois? If so, Dental Innovations has you covered.
Lead by Dr. Thomas E. Murray, we strive to provide a comfortable and caring atmosphere for our patients. Our team of dental professionals looks forward to helping you.
Contact us now to schedule an appointment with Dr. Murray!