Tooth Decay
Houston, TX
 91 percent of Americans have at least one cavity by the time they turn 20, and around 27 percent of adults have untreated dental cavities. Tooth decay, commonly known as cavities, is the destruction of tooth structure caused by dental plaque turning sugars into acid. It happens when bacteria convert the sugar present in your food into acids and plaque further builds up to cause cavities. From kids to seniors, people of all ages can get tooth decay.
Types of Tooth Decay
There are three types of cavities, including:| • |
Root cavities which occur when cavities develop at the root of your teeth (below the gums)
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Smooth-surface cavities which affect smooth surfaces of the teeth – it is generally treated with fluoride treatment
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Pit and fissure cavities which affect the deep grooves biting surfaces of the molars |
Causes of Tooth Decay
Your mouth is full of bacteria that forms a sticky film over the teeth called plaque. After you have a meal that is high in carbohydrates, the bacteria convert the sugar into acid that further breaks down the enamel of your tooth. Once cavities have formed in the enamel, it spreads deeper into your teeth.
How to Treat Tooth Decay
Treatment of cavities depends on how severe they are. | • |
Fluoride Treatment prevents tooth decay and also reverses early decay – it can restore your tooth’s enamel.
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To treat the cavity, your dentist will remove the decayed portion of your tooth and fill it with materials like porcelain, dental amalgams, or composite resin dental fillings.
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In severe cases of tooth decay where there’s not enough structure to support tooth fillings, placement of a crown or inlay and onlay may be required. Crowns are custom-fit coverings that cover the top portion of your teeth, just above the gums.
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When cavities reach the inner material of your tooth, known as the pulp, a root canal is required to remove the damaged pulp and replace it with a filling.
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If the tooth is severely decayed, there may not be any option left but to extract it. |
How to Prevent Tooth Decay
[[[BulletList:Thoroughly brush your teeth after waking up and before sleeping with a fluoride-containing toothpaste to help strengthen enamel
~Flossing every day is a must
~Cut down on sugar. Avoid eating carbohydrates between meals, such as candies, pretzels, chips, and other starchy snacks.
~Use a mouthwash that contains fluoride
~Avoid fizzy, carbonated drinks such as soft drinks and energy drinks
~Avoid rinsing out your mouth with water after brushing to ensure that the fluoride stays in your mouth
~Visit your dentist regularly for oral exams and dental cleanings
Get Your Cavities Treated Today
Many of us are guilty of having late night snacks and skipping brushing before going to bed. What’s done is done, so let's get your cavities treated at Kevin Nail, DDS Family & Cosmetic Dentistry where we provide high-quality treatment of cavities to safeguard your teeth and provide a long-lasting solution.
Call Kevin Nail, DDS Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at (346) 250-3575 today to receive personalized care. |
