Cavity Prevention
Cavities are the most prevalent oral health care issue and will affect most people within their lifetimes. The good news is that cavities are not life threatening and they are easily preventable.
Cavities are caused by plaque building up on the enamel of the teeth. Plaque is a bacteria-laden substance that is sticky and can quickly lead to the demineralization of tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the hardest structure in the human body, but even it is not invincible. The bacteria in plaque utilize carbohydrates from food, especially from refined sugar, to produce acid. This acid will eat through the tooth enamel until the bacteria infect the tooth, causing a cavity. If left untreated, these bacteria can infect the tooth so severely that it will cause tooth loss and can spread to neighboring teeth and gums.
Prevention is the most important step in keeping the mouth free from cavities. The most important things that you should do are to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss every single day. Brushing and flossing help to remove plaque from the mouth so that it does not adhere to the teeth and begin its destruction. Rinsing the mouth after eating is also another method in cavity prevention. When you rinse the mouth after meals, it helps to loosen and rinse away food particles that have been left in the mouth after a meal until you are able to brush your teeth and floss.
Dental sealants are a highly successful treatment available from your dentist to protect the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. These back teeth have many pits and grooves where bacteria, plaque, and food particles tend to become trapped. Dental sealants are powerful weapons against cavity prevention, and although they were once encouraged only for children, adults receive just as many benefits for their permanent teeth.
Simple steps can help to protect your teeth so that they last for a lifetime. Ask Dr. Wayne Suway about the best methods of cavity prevention in order for you to achieve the healthiest and most beautiful smile. Call today.
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1820 The Exchange SE, #600
Atlanta, GA 30339
Phone: (770) 953-1752
FAX: (770) 953-6470
Mon - Thu: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PMClosed for lunch: 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
