Tooth Decay

Tooth Decay | Tooth decay is one of the most common types of dental problems. And also one of the most preventable. By the time tooth decay has done its damage, you will likely need expensive and uncomfortable dental procedures. Fortunately, this can be prevented by taking a number of common sense steps so that you don’t find yourself visiting the dental office unnecessarily.

Plaque and Tartar

Plaque and tartar are your enemies. They are what we’re trying to avoid because of their known role in causing tooth decay, not to mention gum disease. Plaque forms a film on the surface of the teeth that damages both them and the sensitive gum tissue surrounding teeth. Tartar is the hardened form of plaque that is impossible to remove on your own. However, it can be removed by your dental hygienist at a dental cleaning appointment.

Tooth Decay

That plaque that we were just talking about? It’s bad news for your teeth because it creates acids that eat away at your tooth enamel – the strong, outer part of your tooth. The risk of tooth decay is that it can create a cavity that reaches down into the dental pulp, eventually destroying the tooth.

We never want things to get that far. That is why it is so important to maintain the following practices to preserve the health of your teeth and gums.

Tips to Avoid Tooth Decay:

Brush twice daily using a fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to remove food debris from between teeth.
Limit snacks between meals, particularly sugary foods and drinks.
If you cannot brush, such as when you are away from home, rinse your mouth with water after meals and snacks.
Eat a healthy diet, and limit your intake of simple carbohydrates.
Maintain your regular dental exam and cleaning appointments.
Consider getting dental sealants to prevent tooth decay.

Dental Exams and Cleanings

Your basic dental exam and cleaning appointment is one of the cornerstones of tooth decay prevention. During a dental exam, your dental hygienist has a chance to look at your teeth, mouth and gums. They can spot any problems when they are at a very early stage. This is when intervention is the most effective.

A dental cleaning appointment is very helpful in ensuring that you remove any plaque and tartar found on your teeth. Since plaque is often invisible, you probably don’t even know that you have it. Your dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Overdue for Your Dental Exam and Cleaning Appointment?

Dental exams and cleanings are one of the most neglected aspects of preventive dental care. If you have been letting these important appointments slide lately, now is a great time to get back on track by contacting any one of our offices below.