Oral care professionals always make a point of telling patients that a cavity is a serious concern. While this may seem like an exaggeration, the risk of cavities is very real. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, at least one in five Americans has an untreated cavity. That’s why people in Onalaska, WI, depend on Hulse Dental. As a trusted dentist who believes in helping patients with oral care at every age, they educate patients on cavity prevention at each appointment. 

Here are the basics on how to prevent and treat cavities from Onalaska’s oral care pros:

Prevention

A cavity is formed when mouth bacteria combines with sugar to create additional acid. This acid can wear on the enamel of your teeth, causing tooth decay, known as cavities. The best way to prevent this is to reduce your sugar consumption. Steer clear of drinking sugary beverages all day and eating desserts all the time. If you do indulge in sweet treats, make a point of brushing and flossing your teeth shortly after. To increase the strength of your teeth and enamel against tooth decay, eat a diet rich in calcium. Schedule teeth cleanings with your dentist at least twice a year to ensure your teeth are in great condition. 

Treatment Options

During your routine teeth cleaning, your dentist will look for signs of cavities. If they discover one, they’ll walk you through your treatment options based on the condition of your tooth. Certain cavities can be remedied using fillings. In more extreme cases, a root canal may be needed to restore your tooth if the nerve is also affected. If your tooth is too decayed to salvage, your dentist may recommend a crown or an extraction and a dental implant to restore your missing tooth. 

If you live in the greater Onalaska area and are looking for a dentist who can help treat your cavity, call Hulse Dental today at (608) 783-1306 to schedule your first appointment. To find out more about the teeth cleaning, filling, and root canal services this dental practice offers, check out their website.