How to Prevent Tooth Decay

You may think you know how to prevent tooth decay. But it’s never a bad idea to know for sure. Also, getting the details right means you can inform your children about the importance of good oral health. Your dentist wants to make sure you understand all the things you can to preserve your wonderful smile. Lovett Dental Katy has the services you need to learn how to prevent tooth decay.

Causes of Tooth Decay

The foods we eat every day bombard our teeth with sugars and acids. Fortunately, the surface of our teeth is covered by a protective layer called enamel. However, even with daily brushing and flossing, this protective layer can be worn away. When plaque or tartar buildup on your teeth, the bacteria eat away at your enamel, causing cavities. Within these cavities, bacteria thrive. As the cavities deepen, the interior of your tooth or pulp can become infected, resulting in tooth loss or even illnesses affecting your whole body.

If you suddenly feel a sharp pain in your teeth or jaw coming without apparent cause, you may be experiencing a symptom of tooth decay. Some other symptoms to look out for include sensitivity when eating or drinking, finding visible holes in your teeth, and strange stains or spots on your tooth, usually white, brown, or black. Discovering any of these symptoms is a reason to contact your dentist to schedule an appointment. The earlier tooth decay is caught, the sooner it can be stopped and reversed. Your dentist will have numerous ways to treat you and heal your teeth.

Because you are already brushing and flossing twice a day, you’re in a good position to prevent tooth decay. However, there are some other habits you can get into to decrease the likelihood of tooth decay. Regular dental appointments involving teeth cleaning drastically reduce the chances of cavities developing. Another technique your dentist might use is a fluoride treatment, which can strengthen your teeth’s enamel. If you do develop tooth decay, don’t panic. Your dentist can take the following measures:

Fillings – Typically, when you have a cavity, your dentist can remove the decayed area and insert a material preventing further decay.
Root canal – When decay spreads to the pulp of your tooth (the interior), a root canal may be necessary. This involves removing the decayed pulp, cleaning the inside, inserting a temporary filling, and then attaching a permanent crown to cover the tooth.
Extraction – Perhaps the most serious solution is removing the tooth altogether. When damage is too severe to repair, your dentist may pull your tooth. Fortunately, a bridge or implant can replace the tooth hiding the loss.

Contact Lovett Dental Katy Today

Good oral health means knowing how to prevent tooth decay. Here at Lovett Dental Katy, we want to give you the information you need for a healthy smile. Our friendly and experienced staff provides a wide array of dental treatment, such as: