Everyone is taught that cavities are dangerous for your oral health, and that hygiene is the best way to fight and prevent them. But how much do you really know about the science of cavities, and the way they affect our teeth? We wanted to spend some time discussing the process of cavities forming on the teeth, so that you can be better prepared to prevent them going forward!
Spring Valley Dental Care is proud to provide a variety of dental services to those around Spring Valley, CA. With Dr. Boyer and his experienced team, you can rest assured knowing Spring Valley Dental Care is the best dentist in Spring Valley and the surrounding region. If you’re interested in a holiday checkup and professional cleaning, call us today! Otherwise, keep reading to learn more about how cavities form, and the risks they present to our oral health.
How Do Cavities Form?
While avoiding sweets is recommended to avoid cavities, it’s important to understand that sweets aren’t the only kind of food that can cause cavities. Carbohydrates, for example, eventually break down into simple sugars that can affect your enamel. But let’s look deeper and discuss why sugar itself is so harmful for your enamel.
Sugar, specifically sucrose, reacts with bacteria to produce acid. When left on or around your teeth, these acids work to corrode your enamel, and thus create cavities. Even though the enamel is a highly mineralized tissue, the acid can easily dissolve these crystals if left unchecked. When you let acid reside on your teeth for long enough, eventually it can cause enough decay to get through the enamel altogether. That’s typically when you start to feel increased discomfort and sensitivity, because the enamel can no longer protect the sensitive pulp from things like temperature changes.
Cavity Prevention Tips
- Brush at Least Twice Daily: Brushing is your strongest ally against cavities. Make sure you brush at least twice daily for two minutes.
- Floss Every Day: Flossing once per day will help clear tartar, bacteria, and residual sugars from between your teeth, decreasing the likelihood for dental decay.
- Brush After Sweet Treats: As residual sugars from sweets can lead to enamel decay, it’s always a good idea to brush your teeth after, say, dessert. That way you can still enjoy sugar without it affecting your oral health.
- Regular Checkups and Cleanings: While you can accomplish a lot on your own, professional dental cleanings will ensure you’re on the right track with your oral hygiene. So visit your dentist at least every 6 months for a checkup and cleaning!
Professional Cleaning with Spring Valley Dental Care!
If you’re interested in a checkup or professional cleaning with Spring Valley Dental Care, don’t hesitate to contact us today! You can call our Spring Valley dental office at 619-670-4471 to schedule a consultation. Or, feel free to contact us here!