Cavities are one of the reasons your dentist encourages you to take care of your teeth. They form when the tooth enamel, its outer protective layer, gets worn down. Once this happens, the enamel can’t grow back, with the best option to have a dental care provider fill in the space using composite resin. By preventing cavities in the first place, you’ll keep your teeth healthy and your enamel intact. 

How Do Cavities Form?

When you eat food containing carbohydrates, they combine with the bacteria in your mouth to form an acid that mixes with your saliva and old food particles, forming a sticky, hard substance called dental plaque. This process can begin taking place in as little as 20 minutes after eating. If left alone for months without dental cleanings, plaque eventually corrodes the outside of the tooth. It will cause the tooth’s structure to decay, potentially damaging tooth enamel and creating a cavity. 

Sugary foods contain more carbohydrates, which break down into more plaque. This is why foods that are high in sugar, such as candy, are commonly linked to cavities and tooth decay. Higher sugar levels typically translate to more enamel deterioration. 

How Are Cavities Prevented?

Most people end up with a cavity at some point. Children are more commonly affected since they typically eat more sugary treats and don’t maintain proper dental hygiene habits, but a person of any age could develop cavities. To prevent them, dentists recommend brushing and flossing at least two times every day, preferably after breakfast and dinner. Rinsing your mouth after eating sugary foods will help remove trace food particles that would otherwise mix with the acids in your mouth to form plaque.

Fluoride, an ingredient in some mouthwashes and toothpastes, helps make tooth enamel more durable against the acids that would otherwise form cavities. Regular use is encouraged, as fluoride needs to be frequently incorporated into the enamel of your teeth to work. If you notice increased sensitivity in your teeth, or see any visible holes, visit your dentist’s office as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the cavity, they will either administer fluoride treatments or fillings to stop the progression of tooth decay.  

If you need help treating or preventing cavities, turn to the family dentists at Amison Dental in Canton, OH. Since 1999, these professionals have offered area residents a variety of dental services, products, and procedures. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, visit them online or call (330) 452-2255 today.