Am I at Risk for Cavities? Answers From Your Dentist in Bonham, Texas:
Cavity formation can result from several circumstances. It can begin with certain foods or beverages consumed regularly, an improper tooth brushing technique, a lack of flossing, or avoiding regular visits to the dentist. The combination of these factors often creates a perfect environment for cavity formation.
Every patient has unique needs; the only way to determine yours is by talking with a dental provider in your area, such as Bonham Sunshine Dental and Implant Center in Bonham, Texas! We will determine where your oral hygiene regimen could be lacking and make recommendations.
We strongly encourage patients to maintain a diligent regimen of independent home care to maintain their oral health. The foundations of personal oral health care at home directly relate to dental disease prevention. This includes brushing at least twice daily with ADA-approved toothpaste and flossing at least once daily.
In addition to good oral hygiene, maintaining a diet free from refined sugars is a great way to improve oral health. Some suggestions are avoiding foods like candies, baked goods, sticky snacks, and beverages loaded with sugar. Repetitive exposure to carbohydrates such as this can increase an individual’s risk of cavity formation.
We also understand many individuals need help following through with treatment or even going to the dentist for preventive care. This can result in lost opportunities to mitigate potential dental issues. Dental diseases can result from not receiving consistent care from their dentist. A patient seen for continued dental care, similar to that of a primary care provider, will receive treatment for conditions that would be regular, streamlined and addressed before disease progression.
How Does a Cavity Form?
The enamel of the tooth, which coats and protects the exterior portion of the tooth, is one of the strongest tissues in the human body. Enamel preserves the anatomic structure of the tooth. However, it is not impermeable and can become compromised over time from exposure to the oral cavity environment.
Bacteria is always present in the oral cavity, regardless of an individual’s oral hygiene habits. The bacteria feed off the sugars we eat daily and adhere to the enamel surface. The byproduct of this bacteria in the oral cavity is dental plaque.
If a patient is not brushing or is not correctly brushing, plaque can quickly build up and grow on the tooth surface. Without being removed, plaque forms an acid that attacks the surface of the enamel. This acid attack will continue while the plaque is present on the tooth and is being supplied with a diet of refined sugars. Over time, multiple attacks can destroy the tooth surface, commonly known as a cavity.
Cavity formation does not stop at the enamel surface; the bacteria will continue to destroy the inner tooth structures, potentially compromising the entire tooth and other nearby structures.
What are the Signs of a Cavity? Guidance From Your Dentist in Bonham, Texas:
If you suspect that you have a cavity, it’s best to call your dentist for an evaluation. This usually includes an examination and radiographic images to assess the tooth structure. Sometimes, the dentist may need additional diagnostic tools to ensure that even a tiny cavity is not overlooked.
Some common signs to be aware of if you think you have a cavity are as follows:
- Tooth Sensitivity: This can be apparent during eating, especially with hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
Toothache: This discomfort can be more persistent or constant than tooth sensitivity. It can feel like a dull ache or throbbing at times.
Visible Hole: Cavity formation creates a hole in the tooth if untreated or unrecognized. If you notice any holes in the surface of your teeth, it’s likely a cavity.
Staining: Dark spots or staining on the surface of your teeth can indicate decay. Stains related to decay often resemble a shadow under the enamel surface.
Pain When Chewing: If you are chewing and suddenly feel a sharp pain or aching after eating, this could also be a sign of a cavity.
Treatment for a Cavity:
Fortunately for our patients, cavities are common and can be readily treated with a simple filling in most cases. Dr. Ramchand is skilled in diagnosing cavities and offering recommendations for the necessary treatment.
Fillings can be completed within a short appointment using local anesthesia to numb the tooth. Most patients can return to work the same day.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, cavities are preventable, but they happen sometimes, even when we believe we are trying our best to prevent them. Fortunately, you can determine when it’s time to call your dental home at Bonham Sunshine Dental and Implant Center and make an appointment. We are here to help guide and prevent cavities for you and your family both now and in the future.
