Learn How to Protect Your Teeth from Decay

Are you worried about tooth decay? It’s a common concern, but with the right knowledge and care, you can keep your teeth healthy and strong. Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that feed on sugar in your mouth, producing acid that eats away at your teeth. By understanding how this process works, you can take steps to prevent it from happening. Let's explore what tooth decay is, the factors that contribute to it, and how our dental office can help you protect your teeth.

What is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, is a progressive damage to tooth structure caused by an infectious process. It begins when plaque – a sticky film of bacteria – accumulates on the surfaces of your teeth. When you eat sugary foods or drink acidic beverages, these bacteria produce acids that wear away at your tooth enamel.

Without proper care, tooth decay can lead to significant damage to your teeth, infection, and even tooth loss. But with the right preventative measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing cavities. The American Dental Association reports that 60-90% of children worldwide and nearly 100% of adults have dental cavities, but most cases are preventable.

Risk Factors for Tooth Decay

• Inadequate Oral Hygiene - If you don’t brush and floss your teeth regularly or visit our dental office for periodic checkups, dental plaque will accumulate on your teeth, leading to cavities and gum disease.
• Improper Nutrition - A diet high in sugars, frequent snacking, and consuming acidic food and drinks creates an oral environment that promotes tooth decay.
• Dry Mouth - When dental saliva is not available to constantly bathe the teeth due to medical conditions or prescription drugs, cavities are more likely to develop.
• Bruxism - Chronic teeth grinding strips away the outer protective layer of enamel and makes your teeth more vulnerable to decay.
• Enamel Defects and Deeply Grooved Teeth - Deep crevices or defects in dental enamel harbor plaque, making them likely areas for cavities to form.
• Receding Gums - Exposed tooth roots due to receding gums do not have the added protection of an outer layer of dental enamel. With the accumulation of dental plaque, these roots are susceptible to decay.

Preventing Tooth Decay at Our Dental Office

Our dental office is dedicated to helping you maintain optimal oral health and reduce your risk for tooth decay. We provide the highest level of skilled and experienced care, including:

• Regular Checkups and Cleanings - By seeing us twice a year for checkups and cleanings, we can detect early signs of tooth decay and remove any residual plaque you may have missed while brushing.
• Dietary Guidance - We will provide essential dietary guidance to help patients of all ages maintain optimal oral health. By avoiding sugary foods and drinks, you can help prevent the buildup of dental plaque.
• Home Care Instructions - Our professional team will demonstrate the best home care methods to help you maintain optimal oral hygiene at home. By brushing and flossing your teeth each day as recommended, you can help prevent the buildup of dental plaque.

Treating Tooth Decay and Restoring Teeth

While being proactive is the best way to prevent tooth decay, there’s no need to despair if a cavity does develop. With early detection and care, our dentist will gently and precisely excavate the diseased and damaged tooth structure and place a long-lasting filling to rebuild the integrity of your tooth. We use the latest generations of biocompatible tooth-colored materials to expertly restore the appearance and function of your tooth. Your new restoration will be durable, attractive, and blend seamlessly with your smile. For deep tooth decay, we may recommend a full-coverage crown and additional treatment as indicated.

Get in Touch With Us

If you’re concerned about tooth decay or have any other dental concerns, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Our dedicated staff is always here to help and provide the best possible care for your teeth. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can help you protect your smile.