Next to the common cold, tooth decay (also known as cavities) is the most common disease in the entire world. It’s estimated that about 90% of American adults have had a cavity at some point in their lives. If you have, then you know how inconvenient they can be. They might even be painful, and you have to take time out of your day to visit your dentist for a filling. Once you have a cavity, is there a way to treat it besides getting a filling? How can you prevent decay in the first place? Read more to find out.
What Causes Tooth Decay?
A sticky film of bacteria called plaque is always forming in your mouth. When you eat sugary or starchy foods, the bacteria feast on these sugars and leave behind a destructive acidic waste product that erodes your tooth enamel, which is what causes cavities. When left untreated, these acid attacks can wear down the layers of your tooth, including the sensitive dentin under the enamel, and eventually reach the pulp, where the nerves and blood vessels are. At this point, the cavity is often extremely painful and can’t be treated with a filling alone. It usually requires more extensive and costly treatment, such as a crown, root canal, or even tooth extraction.
Is There a Cure for Tooth Decay?
Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a cure for tooth decay. Once the process has begun, there is nothing you can do to reverse the damage. However, you can prevent further damage by taking some of the following steps:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Ideally, you should brush after every meal and snack.
- Floss at least once daily to clean out bits of food and plaque from between your teeth.
- Eat plenty of leafy greens. These foods are high in vitamins and minerals that strengthen your teeth.
- Limit your intake of sugary and starchy foods.
- Take vitamin C and D supplements to fortify your teeth so that they are better prepared to withstand acid attacks from oral bacteria.
- Visit your dentist every six months for a regular checkup and cleaning.
While there is no true cure for tooth decay, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Follow the tips listed above to keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free!
About the Author
Dr. Steven Crovatto is a graduate of the University of Florida’s dental school. He is also the past president of the Clay County Dental Society. He has a particular passion for dental implants, root canals, and tooth extractions to heal patients in need and relieve their pain. If you want to schedule a checkup with Dr. Crovatto to make sure you don’t have any cavities, you can contact his Orange Park, FL office at (904) 272-0800.