Dental cavities are common dental issues that can lead to further problems when not addressed right away. There are different ways to treat cavities that a dentist in Los Gatos can recommend. The right treatment for you depends on the location and seriousness of the cavity. And it’s essential to take action before it becomes serious.
Common Causes of Cavities
Dental cavities develop due to bacteria that tend to eat away at your teeth’s enamel. When plaque forms on your teeth, acids are produced by these bacteria, dissolving the enamel and creating a hole. Here’s why you can have dental cavities:
- Plaque formation. Plaque forms as food particles and saliva are collected along your gum line and between your teeth. Plaque has bacteria that feed off food sugars and release acids that cause tooth decay. To remove plaque and prevent cavity formation, you must brush and floss your teeth regularly.
- Poor dental hygiene. If you don’t practice good dental hygiene habits, such as brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing them once a day, your teeth can have cavities. Also, you must use an antiseptic mouthwash to prevent cavity formation. In addition, it is imperative to limit your consumption of sugary snacks and beverages to minimize the mouth bacteria that cause plaque. Finally, regular dental visits include cleanings and checkups necessary to keep your teeth free of plaque. And if your dentist discovers you have cavities, they can address them early with dental fillings to save the affected teeth.
Detecting Dental Cavities Early
To stop dental cavities from progressing before they become a serious issue, they must be detected as early as possible. This can happen during routine dental checkups where your dentist examines your mouth and finds signs of tooth decay like broken teeth, teeth discoloration, and holes. Also, the dentist may use X-rays to find hidden cavities.
Regular dental cleanings are essential to get rid of bacteria and plaque from the teeth before they cause damage. Also, they can detect cavities early, so they can be filled with teeth-colored filling to prevent them from getting worse.
Treating Cavities
Dental cavities can be treated with dental fillings that come in the form of composite resins or silver amalgam. These filings help restore the affected teeth’s look and strength. When you take care of your teeth properly, your fillings can last for years. Other treatment options for dental cavities include dental crowns, root canal therapy, and tooth extractions. Which treatment your dentist will recommend depends on the severity of your cavities and where they are located.