Cavities are common enough that you may have already experienced at least one. Fortunately, today’s advanced dentistry can help patients recover from any stage of tooth decay (the condition that leads to cavity development). However, one of the reasons why cavities are so common is because people don’t always realize how easily they can be prevented, or how hesitating to treat them can lead to more serious tooth infection. Today, we help you get to know cavities better by explaining how to prevent what causes them and how to effectively protect your tooth if one develops.
What Really Causes Them
Cavities are the products of tooth decay, which is an infection in your tooth structure caused by harmful oral bacteria (found abundantly in plaque and tartar). These bacteria convert substances like sugar and carbs into destructive acids that erode the enamel protecting your teeth. Then, bacteria can infect your tooth’s structure. The best way to prevent decay and cavities from forming is to control oral bacteria, which requires brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once. You can also inhibit acid production by limiting your intake of sugar and carbs, and keep tartar at bay with regular checkup and cleaning appointments.
The Best Way to Treat Them
Fortunately, just because a cavity develops doesn’t mean that the condition is uncontrollable. With the right restorative treatment, you can stop decay from spreading and restore the tooth structure that you’ve lost to it. In mild to moderate cases, cavities can often be successfully treated with tooth-colored fillings. However, in more severe cases, you could require root canal treatment to extract the infection from within the inner chamber of your tooth.
Protect Your Smile Better from Cavities
Cavities are common, but knowledge about how to prevent them from damaging your teeth isn’t always as widespread. To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling Lathrop Dental Center in Katy, TX at 832-437-3849. We proudly welcome patients and families from Katy, Fulshear, Weston Lakes, Simonton, Richmond, Rosenberg, Brookshire, Wallis, Orchard, Cypress, Sealy, Columbus, and all surrounding communities.
