Tooth Decay and Cavities

Cavities develop in teeth when plaque is not removed properly from teeth surfaces and bacteria begin to form in the mouth. The food that is eaten will break down into sugars, which cause plaque formation and bacteria on the surface of the teeth. When sugars break down into acids, minerals are then removed from the teeth. This is known as demineralization and will begin the process of tooth decay.

With the occurrence of decay, the dentist will remove the infected area in the tooth and fill the opening that is left with a composite or metal filling. But if decay is not caught early enough, it can progress deeper into the tooth. A root canal procedure would then be needed to clear up this type of deep-seated infection.

To prevent cavities, the teeth should be properly brushed and flossed, preferably after every meal but at least twice a day. Seeing your dentist on a routine basis for exams and cleanings will also help to keep cavities to a minimum, as the dentist will be able to remove plaque that you may miss. Also, any problems that might be developing can be caught early with regular exams, which will help to keep your teeth and gums in a healthy condition. Periodic X-rays may need to be taken to detect any problems that are not visible to the naked eye. There are dental treatments available for every type of issue that may arise, but it is best to prevent any problems from developing in the first place.

Source: Dentist Torrance

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