Cavities form over time. As such, daily brushing and limiting your intake of sugary foods and beverages could help you avoid a trip to the dentist for a filling. To maintain your dental health, below are a few facts to know about the tiny holes in teeth. 

A Guide to Cavity Development, Symptoms, & Prevention

Plaque Wears Away Enamel 

Sugary substances lead to cavities because bacteria feed on the gunk left behind on tooth enamel. When you skip brushing, the bacteria turn to acid. A mixture of acid, saliva, and food residue will leave areas of teeth coated in plaque. Plaque on enamel is like rust on metal, slowly breaking down the hard, durable surface and creating a hole. Bacteria get pulled into the crevices, wearing away the dentin layer down to the pulp. 

Cavities Cause Tooth Pain

Some cavities might be too small to see in a mirror, so if you don’t see a hole, you might feel cause for concern. Once bacteria reach the dentin layer, you might notice tooth sensitivity or pain when eating and drinking. This is because tubes in this layer send signals to nerves. If you have a toothache, trouble eating, or general discomfort, see a dentist immediately for help. The cavity will only progress further, which could result in the need for tooth extraction.

Good Dental Hygiene Prevents Cavities 

When you brush teeth twice a day and use mouth rinse, make sure to use products that contain fluoride. It helps add minerals to tooth enamel to make it stronger. You can also drink water for added fluoride and to wash away sugar particles. On your next trip to the dentist, inquire about having sealants placed on back teeth. The plastic coverings prevent harmful bacteria and acids from reaching the enamel.

Along with at-home care, professional teeth cleaning at Cooper Family and Cosmetic Dentistry will remove stuck-on plaque before it destroys enamel. Based in Gilbert, AZ, the dentists specialize in cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry services to help patients throughout the Phoenix area keep their natural teeth and restore the beauty of their smiles. To schedule an oral exam, call (480) 964-1000. Visit the dental office online for special offers and Facebook for announcements.