Health

Cavities: What are they and how can we prevent them?

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Article written byElite Dental Group

Cavities are holes in a person’s teeth that can look like white, brown, or black spots. Although cavities form in many places, they often start on the top of teeth where a person bites. If a cavity is not fixed it can cause sensitivity, pain, infection, and eventually tooth loss.

The main reason for cavities is excess bacteria in the mouth which feeds off food particles left on teeth. Infrequent brushing followed by eating sugary foods causes acid build-up which forms a sticky substance called plaque. Plaque causes bacteria to grow, attacking and weakening teeth resulting in cavities.

If cavities are not treated, they will grow bacteria attacking the tooth’s dentin and reaching the pulp. Once bacteria reach a tooth’s pulp, it will become infected. Dental infections can cause swelling, pain, redness, and a foul taste in the mouth.

If you skip brushing your teeth, snack between meals, eat sugary food and drinks, have damaged teeth, or take medications that cause dry mouth, you are at risk of cavities. Cavities can be treated at an early stage with fluoride. Deeper cavities will require a dentist to remove the cavity and fill the space with a dental filling. Larger cavities may require an extraction.

Reduce the risk of cavities by drinking water and brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice daily followed by flossing before bed. Visiting a dentist twice yearly can additionally help to spot and treat a cavity before it worsens.

Dr. Andre Eliasian is one of the leading dentists in oral surgery in Glendale CA. His clinic offers several services which include fillings, tooth extractions, and complex oral surgeries. If you are looking for wisdom tooth extraction in Glendale or dental implants in Glendale call for an appointment.

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