Tooth decay is a disease that destroys the hard outer layer of a tooth, called enamel. As tooth decay gets worse, it can get into deeper layers of a tooth and cause holes called cavities.
If a person with tooth decay doesn’t get treatment, it can cause more problems with their teeth and mouth. But there are ways to stop or stop tooth decay from getting worse.
This article will discuss what causes tooth decay, how to spot it, and how to treat it.
What is tooth decay?
Cavities permanently damage portions of your teeth’ hard surface that evolve into tiny gaps or holes. Cavities, also known as tooth decay or caries, are caused by several reasons, including germs in your mouth, frequent snacking, drinking sugary drinks, and failing to clean your teeth properly.
Cavities and tooth decay are among the most common global health issues. They are most prevalent among children, teenagers, and the elderly. Cavities, however, can affect anyone who has teeth, including infants.
5 Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay
Many things can cause tooth decay, but bacteria are the most important. Still, it’s essential to know that everyone has bacteria in their mouths. When this bacteria stays on our teeth for a long time, it starts to form plaque, a white film of many bacteria. When we don’t take the proper steps to care for our oral health, the bacteria in our mouths can start to produce acids that wear away our tooth enamel. When these acids touch the outer layer of our teeth, they begin to make holes in our teeth.
Of course, you don’t want a cavity if you’re like most adults. So how can you stop them and tooth decay from happening in the first place? Doing these five ways will help your mouth and body, and your risk of tooth decay will go down a lot.
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Brush and Floss Your Teeth Properly
Your child’s first defense against tooth decay is to brush and floss properly. Getting your kids into a routine where they brush and floss twice daily is essential. This is a habit that will last a lifetime. If you want to ensure kids are brushing their teeth correctly, it is important to watch them until they are old enough to take care of their oral health.
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Use Mouthwash Contain Fluoride
Rinse your mouth with fluoridated mouthwash after you brush and floss your teeth. Using mouthwash daily helps reduce the bacteria in your mouth, which reduces the amount of dental plaque that builds up. By using fluoride mouthwash regularly, you can avoid periodontal disease.
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Avoid Smoking and Drinking
It’s common knowledge that smoking and tobacco use can lead to various health issues. Over 16 million people in the United States currently suffer from a condition directly linked to smoking.
Smoking and oral tobacco use are incredibly damaging to the mouth, gums, and teeth, although most individuals are unaware of this. Smoking isn’t just bad for your smile; it can also cause gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer.
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Get a Cavity Filled Right Away
Another benefit of going to the dentist twice a year is that they can find and fix any cavities right away. Fillings can help improve the shape and stability of your teeth and keep you from losing more teeth or getting holes. To repair cavities, hurt or broken teeth, and restore teeth that have become worn down or eroded, a dentist can use fillings.
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Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Any good family dentist will say you should visit the dentist twice a year. When they see the dentist every six months, it becomes easy to catch tooth decay early. Your dentist will give you a thorough cleaning to help eliminate stains and plaque. Your teeth will look better after your visit, and your breath will smell better.
Conclusion
Damage to teeth caused by the bacteria in dental plaque is known as tooth decay. The bacteria in your mouth can turn the carbohydrates in your diet into acids that can erode your teeth.
Early tooth decay often has no noticeable signs. Because of this, maintaining regular dental checkups is crucial. The dentist can help you spot the earliest signs of tooth decay and begin treatment before the problem worsens.
If you are experiencing any sensitivity, pain, or swelling in your teeth or mouth, you should immediately schedule an appointment with your dentist. These symptoms may indicate advanced tooth decay or another dental issue requiring treatment.